The Power of Authenticity: How Being Yourself as a Teacher Enhances Student Success

by Dennis Feinland

CMEA Secondary Music 6-12 Representative

Teaching is often described as both an art and a science, requiring a delicate balance between imparting knowledge and fostering an environment conducive to learning. At the heart of effective teaching lies a crucial element that is sometimes overlooked: authenticity. When teachers bring their true selves into the classroom, they create an environment that facilitates learning while nurturing students’ growth and well-being. As teachers, we are often told to create a community within our classrooms in which students can be themselves; as teachers, we must remember to model that behavior as well. Here’s why being yourself as a teacher can profoundly impact students and enrich their educational experience.

Building Trust and Connection

Authenticity in teaching starts with building genuine relationships, which may not always perfectly reflect what you have been taught a student-teacher relationship should look like. When teachers are authentic, they convey a sense of trustworthiness and reliability. Students are more likely to engage in learning when they feel that their teachers are sincere and approachable. An authentic teacher shows vulnerability, admits when they don’t know something, and shares their own learning experiences. This honesty helps students feel more comfortable expressing their own uncertainties and asking questions. Picture it: if you’re willing to go out on a limb and improvise in front of the whole ensemble first, wouldn’t your students be more likely to do so as well?

Furthermore, authentic teachers create an environment where students feel valued and understood. By being themselves, teachers model emotional intelligence and interpersonal skills, demonstrating how to interact with others in a respectful and genuine manner. Now more than ever (as a great number of students appear to struggle with social skills due to being quarantined during formative years), this modeling can inspire students to develop their own authentic selves and cultivate meaningful relationships both inside and outside the classroom.

Enhancing Engagement and Motivation

When teachers are authentic, their passion for the subject matter becomes apparent. This enthusiasm is contagious and can significantly boost student engagement. An authentic teacher who genuinely cares about their subject and their students’ success brings a unique energy into the classroom. This energy can make lessons more compelling and relatable, fostering a deeper connection with the material.

That being said, letting your true enthusiasm shine through may be a double-edged sword. When a teacher is openly not passionate about the subject matter, such authenticity may rub off on the students in a way that is detrimental to their learning. Especially if a highly influential student begins to become apathetic (i.e., a section leader or drum major), rehearsals can become less productive, performances may feel less rewarding, and you might find yourself doing a lot more classroom management than before.

If you find yourself in this situation, feel free to incorporate your own interests and personal experiences into your teaching. Without being too self-centered, personalization might not only make lessons more interesting but it could also help students see real-world applications of what they are learning. For example, a music teacher with a passion for cats might integrate cute feline imagery and stories about their own pets into their curriculum, making the subject more relevant and stimulating for students.

Fostering a Safe and Inclusive Environment

A classroom where teachers are true to themselves can often be a safer space for students. Authenticity fosters an inclusive environment where diversity is celebrated and differences are respected. When teachers express their own identities and experiences, they validate the identities of their students. This validation is crucial in helping students feel seen and heard, particularly for those who may come from marginalized or underrepresented backgrounds.

By embracing their own unique qualities and experiences, teachers encourage students to do the same. This not only boosts self-esteem but also promotes a sense of belonging. Students who feel accepted are more likely to think critically about what they are doing, participate actively in class, and develop a positive attitude towards learning.

Promoting Lifelong Learning and Growth

Authentic teaching involves a commitment to personal growth and continuous learning. Teachers who are true to themselves are often those who reflect on their practices, seek feedback, and are open to new ideas. This mindset is beneficial for students, who learn not only from the content being taught but also from observing their teacher’s approach to learning and growth.

When students see their teachers embracing new challenges, adapting to feedback, and pursuing their own interests, they learn the value of lifelong learning. This can inspire them to adopt a similar attitude towards their education and personal development. An authentic teacher’s example can encourage students to set goals, tackle obstacles with resilience, and view learning as an ongoing journey rather than a destination. Especially if their teacher is able to demonstrate how they continue to engage with music in their personal life, students may be more likely to continue playing after high school.

Encouraging Critical Thinking and Independence

Authenticity in teaching often involves challenging students to think critically and independently. Authentic teachers are not just conveyors of information but facilitators of learning. They encourage students to question, analyze, and form their own opinions. This approach fosters a classroom environment where students are empowered to take ownership of their learning instead of demanding to be spoon-fed every little thing during class time. By being themselves and sharing their own thought processes, teachers can model critical thinking skills. They demonstrate how to approach problems, consider different perspectives, and make informed decisions. This modeling helps students develop these essential skills, preparing them for future academic and personal challenges.

Conclusion

Being yourself as a teacher is not merely a personal choice but a powerful educational strategy. Authenticity fosters trust, enhances engagement, promotes inclusivity, and encourages lifelong learning. As we start a new year, let us bring our true selves into the classroom, create an environment where students feel valued, inspired, and motivated to learn. In this way, authenticity is not just a trait but a transformative tool that can profoundly impact students’ educational experiences and personal growth. In a world where genuine connections are increasingly rare, the authentic teacher stands out as a beacon of inspiration and a catalyst for positive change.