The Power of Student Responsibility in Learning

As a student, it may seem like doing nothing in class doesn't harm anyone. However, this couldn't be further from the truth. In fact, one student's apathy and lack of engagement can easily destroy an entire class.

For instance, imagine a student who sits in the back of the class, quietly playing games on their phone. They're not bothering anyone, but if the teacher sees them, it can be demotivating. The teacher may start to feel like their efforts to engage and teach the class are going to waste if the students aren't interested.

As more and more students start to follow suit, the classroom environment can become toxic. The teacher may feel like they need to create a more restrictive environment to prevent cheating or slacking off, which can make things worse by making the good students become discouraged because they did not deserve such a treatment.

On the other hand, when all students are participating and engaged in class, the teacher can be inspired to give their best. Even if a student isn't doing well in understanding the subject taught, their participation can make a difference. The teacher may feel energized and more willing to put in extra effort to help the student understand.

It's important to understand that students have a responsibility to create a positive classroom environment. By actively engaging in class and being respectful of the teacher and their peers, students can make a significant difference in the quality of education they receive. In contrast, even just one disengaged student can bring down the entire class, leading to a negative learning experience for everyone involved.

I want to believe that if at least one student is paying attention, it is still worth putting in the effort to teach them. However, it can be incredibly demotivating to teach in an environment where the majority of students are disengaged or uninterested. Teaching is a two-way street, and the teacher needs the active participation and engagement of their students to effectively teach the material. While teaching to one engaged student may seem worthwhile, it is difficult to maintain the motivation and energy required to do so in a classroom where most students are disinterested. Therefore, it is essential to create a positive learning environment where all students are engaged, motivated, and willing to participate actively in their education.

Undoubtedly, a good teacher can make a significant difference in the classroom by creating an engaging and supportive learning environment. However, even the best teacher cannot force a disinterested student to be interested in class. Students must take responsibility for their education and recognize the importance of active participation and engagement in the classroom. A teacher can only provide the tools and resources for learning, but it is up to the student to utilize them effectively. It is essential for students to understand that they have a vital role to play in their own education, and they must be willing to do their part to make the most out of their learning opportunities.

While having a good teacher is undoubtedly beneficial, it is not always a guarantee for successful learning. On the other hand, having a bad teacher does not necessarily mean that learning cannot take place. Students have the power to take control of their own learning and seek out resources to supplement their education, even if their teacher is ineffective. With the wealth of technology and educational resources available today, there are few excuses for not learning if a student is truly motivated. There are online courses, educational videos, and other resources (books) that can be accessed from anywhere at any time, allowing students to learn at their own pace and on their own terms. While a good teacher can facilitate learning and provide guidance, ultimately, it is up to the student to take responsibility for their own education and make the most out of the resources available to them.

It is important to clarify that the intention of the previous paragraphs was not to provide an excuse for bad teaching or to shift blame away from teachers. Good teaching is crucial for creating a positive and effective learning environment, and it is the responsibility of teachers to do their best to engage and inspire their students. However, it is equally important for students to recognize that they have a significant role to play in their own education and should not solely rely on their teachers to learn. The purpose of this discussion was to emphasize the importance of personal accountability and to encourage students to take an active role in their education. Ultimately, success in education and in life is determined by one's own efforts and choices, and it is up to each individual to take ownership of their own destiny.

In conclusion, as a student, it's crucial to understand that your actions have consequences. By actively participating in class and being respectful of others, you can create a positive learning environment that benefits everyone. However, if you choose to be apathetic and disengaged, you can easily destroy the class and ruin the learning experience for yourself and your peers.

Article by Marcelo Gameiro

Published 09 Mar 2023

https://mgameirollc.uteach.io/blog/the-power-of-student-responsibility-in-learning

 

 

How to Prepare for Post-Graduate Admission Exams and Interviews

As graduation approaches, many students are faced with the daunting task of preparing for entrance exams for post-graduation admission. It's a common experience to feel overwhelmed with the pressure of achieving good grades, completing assignments, and studying for exams. The added stress of preparing for an interview or admission exam can make the situation even more challenging. However, with proper preparation, students can overcome these challenges and increase their chances of success.

One of the main concerns that students face when preparing for an entrance exam (or job interview) is their English proficiency. It's natural to be nervous about your ability to communicate effectively in English during the interview. However, by preparing and practicing speaking English every day, you can overcome this hurdle. It's important to note that your English proficiency is not static. It can improve or deteriorate depending on how often you practice.

To improve your English speaking skills, find someone to practice with every day or at least every other day. This can be a classmate preparing for the same exam or a language exchange partner online. Today, with technology, there are no excuses to not find someone to practice with. By practicing regularly, you can improve your fluency and become more confident in your ability to express yourself.

Remember that preparing for an entrance exam requires more than just language proficiency. You also need to be well-versed in your subject matter and have a deep understanding of the concepts covered in your course. Therefore, allocate sufficient time to revise and study the relevant materials.

When practicing English, focus on the four areas of reading, writing, listening, and speaking. While speaking is the most crucial aspect for an interview, practicing the other three areas will help to reinforce your language skills. By practicing regularly with a purpose, you will notice your fluency improving, and you may start enjoying your practice time. In other words, English will not be a concern in the interview. You'll already have enough to worry about, like your academic achievements.

Most students start preparing for such exams when it's already too close. But if you're a smart student, you'd be practicing English all the time, so you're prepared for an interview, even one that takes you by surprise. Your English skills and confidence about your language ability will not be an issue.

One thing that can help you a lot in such interviews is what we call people skills. You can check out courses online that cover this topic. For instance, there are courses on how to make a good first impression. This can go a long way in getting accepted for any program you apply for.

In conclusion, preparing for an entrance exam for post-graduation admission can be challenging, but it's not insurmountable. With proper preparation, including regular practice of your English language skills, you can increase your chances of success. Remember to allocate sufficient time to study and revise your coursework, as well as practice your English proficiency regularly. Good luck with your exams!

Article by Marcelo Gameiro

Published 05 Mar 2023

https://mgameirollc.uteach.io/blog/how-to-prepare-for-post-graduate-admission-exams-and-interviews

 

Why You Shouldn't Worry About What Others Think of You.

Self-confidence is a critical component of success in life. It enables us to face our fears and tackle new challenges with courage and determination. However, many people struggle with self-doubt, which can be caused by concerns about how others perceive us. In this blog post, we will explore why it is important not to be concerned about what others think of you, and how you can build self-confidence and move forward in life.

Firstly, it is crucial to understand that the opinions of others are just that – opinions. They are not necessarily reflective of reality, and they do not define who we are. When we become overly concerned with what others think of us, we give away our power and allow others to control our lives. This can lead to feelings of anxiety, depression, and a lack of self-esteem.

One famous example of this is the story of J.K. Rowling, the author of the Harry Potter series. Rowling had the idea for Harry Potter when she was a struggling single mother living on welfare. However, when she submitted her manuscript to publishers, she was rejected numerous times. Many publishers told her that the book was too long and would not appeal to children. However, Rowling refused to let the critics affect her. She persisted in her belief in her work and eventually found a publisher who was willing to take a chance on her. The rest, as they say, is history. The Harry Potter series has become one of the best-selling book series of all time, and Rowling is now one of the wealthiest women in the world.

Another example is that of Thomas Edison, who is credited with inventing the light bulb. Edison failed numerous times before he finally succeeded in creating a working light bulb. When asked about his failures, Edison famously said, "I have not failed. I've just found 10,000 ways that won't work." Edison's ability to persevere in the face of failure is a testament to his self-confidence and belief in his own abilities.

So how can we build self-confidence and avoid becoming overly concerned with what others think of us? One effective strategy is to focus on our strengths and accomplishments. Instead of dwelling on our shortcomings, we should celebrate our successes and remind ourselves of our talents and abilities. It is also important to surround ourselves with positive and supportive people who believe in us and encourage us to pursue our goals.

Another silly example is one student I saw today at the canteen, she was still wearing a pajamas, obviously she did not care of what other would think of her, I could not help to notice of her and thought  she must be a confident person.

In conclusion, it is crucial not to become overly concerned with what others think of us. When we focus too much on the opinions of others, we give away our power and limit our potential for success. Instead, we should focus on building our self-confidence and belief in our own abilities. By doing so, we can move forward with courage and determination and achieve our goals, no matter what the critics may say.

 

 

Article by Marcelo Gameiro

Published 04 Mar 2023

https://mgameirollc.uteach.io/blog/why-you-shouldn-t-worry-about-what-others-think-of-you

 

Learn English and Improve Your Accent Through Music

Music is not only a form of entertainment but also a great tool for learning languages. One of the most popular languages in the world is English, and many people want to improve their English skills. Listening to and singing English songs can be a fun and effective way to learn the language and improve your accent. In this article, we will discuss how to use music to learn English and improve your accent.

Download the music and lyrics

The first step is to download the music and lyrics of the songs you want to learn. You can find the lyrics on various websites or use music apps that provide the lyrics along with the song. Once you have the lyrics, it's essential to find the meaning of all the words you don't know using a dictionary. This will help you understand the lyrics and learn new vocabulary.

Music is useful to learn vocabulary and expressions

Music is an excellent way to learn vocabulary and expressions in context. You can learn new words and phrases by listening to English songs and paying attention to the lyrics. For example, if you listen to a love song, you will likely hear words like "heart," "soulmate," and "romance." If you listen to a rap song, you will likely hear words and expressions related to urban life and culture.

Sing out loud

As you listen to the music, it's essential to sing out loud together with the singer. This will help you get used to producing the sounds of the English language and improve your accent. Don't worry about making mistakes; the important thing is to practice and have fun. You can also try to mimic the singer's pronunciation and intonation to improve your accent.

Learn one song per week

Learning and practicing one song per week is an effective way to learn English through music. In one year, you will learn 52 songs, which is a lot of learning and vocabulary to add to your repertoire. You can create a playlist of your favorite English songs and practice them regularly. It's also a good idea to listen to the songs in different genres to learn new vocabulary and expressions.

Lesson in Using Music to Learn English (YouTube / YouKu)

Truly, there is no better or more enjoyable way to enhance your English skills than by using music. This method is not only straightforward and effective, but it also requires no specialized skills to implement. If you're wondering why listening to English songs hasn't helped you improve your language abilities, it's possible that you overlooked some essential steps. To get the most out of this method, you need to learn the lyrics and their meanings, as well as sing along while the music is playing. However, the most crucial component of this process is having fun while doing it. It has been proven that students learn most effectively when they are enjoying the learning process.

In conclusion, music is a fun and effective way to learn English and improve your accent. By downloading the music and lyrics, learning new vocabulary and expressions, singing out loud, and learning one song per week, you can enhance your English skills and add new words and phrases to your repertoire. So, turn up the volume and start learning English through music today!

Article by Marcelo Gameiro

Published 03 Mar 2023

https://mgameirollc.uteach.io/blog/learn-english-and-improve-your-accent-through-music

 

Overcoming Shyness: The Importance of Speaking Loudly.

Communication is one of the most crucial aspects of human interaction. It enables us to express our thoughts, feelings, and ideas with others effectively. However, many individuals struggle to communicate confidently due to shyness, and often the issue lies in not being heard or understood clearly. The volume at which we speak plays a significant role in this.

When speaking to a group of people, it's important to speak at a volume that everyone can hear. Speaking too softly can result in people struggling to hear what you are saying, which can lead to miscommunication, misunderstandings, and ultimately, a lack of authority. On the other hand, speaking too loudly can be overwhelming and come across as aggressive, leading to a loss of confidence and vitality.

Shyness is a common issue that can impact communication. Individuals who are shy may find it difficult to speak up or project their voice, which can result in their thoughts and ideas being overlooked. This can lead to a loss of authority and confidence, which can have a significant impact on both personal and professional relationships.

Shyness is a common trait that many people experience. It can be defined as a feeling of nervousness or self-consciousness in social situations. For some, shyness can be a debilitating issue that can negatively impact their personal and professional lives. However, it is important to remember that it is okay to be shy and that there are ways to overcome this issue, including being louder.

YouTube / YouKu

Being louder does not necessarily mean being aggressive or overly assertive. Instead, it means projecting your voice so that you can be heard and understood by others. This can be particularly important in group settings or when speaking in public, as it helps to ensure that your message is received by your audience.

One of the benefits of being louder is that it can help to overcome shyness. When you speak at a volume that is suitable for the situation, it can help to boost your confidence and make you feel more in control. This can be particularly helpful in situations where you may feel intimidated or overwhelmed, such as in a job interview or during a public speaking engagement.

Another benefit of being louder is that it can help you to establish your authority and credibility. When you speak at a volume that is suitable for the situation, it can help to convey a sense of confidence and competence to your audience. This can be particularly important in professional settings, where your ability to communicate effectively can impact your career success.

It is important to note that being louder does not mean that you have to sacrifice your natural speaking style or personality. It simply means being aware of your volume and making adjustments as needed. It can be helpful to practice speaking in front of a mirror or with a trusted friend or colleague to get feedback on your volume and speaking style.

It is okay to be shy, but being louder can help to overcome this issue and improve your communication skills. By projecting your voice, you can increase your confidence, establish your authority, and ensure that your message is heard and understood by others. With practice, you can learn to speak at a volume that is suitable for the situation while remaining true to your natural speaking style and personality.

One example of the importance of volume in communication is demonstrated by a personal experience I had while attending a conference. The speaker was a renowned expert in their field, but they spoke at such a low volume that I struggled to hear what they were saying. As a result, I found it challenging to engage with the presentation and lost interest. This experience taught me the importance of speaking at a volume that is suitable for the audience to maintain their engagement.

Studies have also shown that speaking at an appropriate volume can improve communication effectiveness. In a study conducted by the University of Michigan, researchers found that speaking at a moderate volume significantly increased the likelihood of the speaker's message being understood and remembered by the audience. Conversely, speaking too softly resulted in a lack of engagement and decreased comprehension.

Furthermore, speaking at an appropriate volume can also contribute to a person's perceived authority and confidence. In a study published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, researchers found that individuals who spoke at a moderate volume were perceived as more confident and competent than those who spoke softly or loudly.

In conclusion, speaking at an appropriate volume is critical for effective communication. It's essential to project your voice, especially in group settings, to ensure that your message is heard and understood. Shyness can often lead to a lack of authority and confidence, but working on speaking at an appropriate volume can help individuals overcome this issue. By practicing projecting your voice, you can improve your communication skills, build confidence, and increase your perceived authority in personal and professional settings.

Article by Marcelo Gameiro

Published 27 Feb 2023

https://mgameirollc.uteach.io/blog/overcoming-shyness-the-importance-of-speaking-loudly

Changing the World One Student at a Time: Reflections of a Dedicated Teacher.

Being a teacher is a rewarding profession, but it's not always perfect. It takes dedication, hard work, and patience to be an effective teacher. As a teacher, I've realized that I'm in a unique position where people pay good money to hear me talk and teach. This is a privilege that I take very seriously, as it gives me the opportunity to inspire other people, not just through my teaching but also by being a good example.

However, I understand that not every student will hear what I say or pay attention. Sometimes, it can be frustrating when students are not engaged or do not seem to care about the subject matter. But I firmly believe that those who do hear and take an interest in what I'm teaching, it will make all of my efforts worthwhile, even if it's only one student.

This reminds me of the story of a man who was walking along the beach and saw a starfish stranded on the sand. He picked it up and threw it back into the ocean so that it wouldn't die under the sun. Someone asked him why he was bothering to save just one starfish when there were so many on the beach. The man replied that it may not make a significant difference, but for that one starfish, it made all the difference. This story resonates with me because, as a teacher, I may not be able to change the world, but I can change the world for one student.

As an educator here in China, I must say that I am very impressed with the students I teach. For the most part, my students are diligent, hardworking, and well-behaved. They come to class prepared and ready to learn, and they actively participate in discussions and group activities. Additionally, they are very conscientious about completing their homework on time and to the best of their ability. It is evident that they take their education seriously and have a strong desire to succeed. Overall, I feel very fortunate to work with such motivated and dedicated students, and I am confident that they will continue to excel in their academic pursuits and future professional accomplishments..

However, there are a few students who fall out of this pattern, showing a lack of interest and a lack of engagement in the classroom. They tend to be disengaged, distracted, and sometimes exhibit disruptive behavior. As a teacher, it is my responsibility to ensure that every student receives the attention and support they need to succeed. I work closely with these students to identify their challenges and provide them with the necessary guidance and resources to help them get back on track. While it is disheartening to see a few students struggle, I am confident that with the right support and encouragement, they too can achieve academic success.

Sometimes, I get a difficult class that is hard to control or students who don't pay attention. However, it's in these classes that I sometimes get a chance to change a student's life. I may say something that touches them and inspires them to be the best they can be. And that is priceless. It's not about the number of students I reach; it's about the impact I have on the students who hear me.

I am currently having an amazing experience as a teacher in China. Teaching subjects such as business, company evaluations, import/export, finance, and now English has been a rewarding experience that has allowed me to connect with students from different backgrounds and cultures. However, what I appreciate most about my job is the opportunity to make friends with university students. They view me as a more experienced person and often seek my advice on many aspects of their personal lives, such as family, dating, and career. It's incredibly fulfilling to know that I'm not only making an impact in their academic lives but also in their personal lives, and I feel privileged to be a part of their journey.

Recorded conversation with Amie in YouTube (NOT showing her face for privacy)

Teaching English has been particularly fun for me because it offers more flexibility than the other subjects. In my English classes, I have the freedom to take the class in almost any direction I want. I can discuss topics that are not necessarily related to the textbook or curriculum, allowing me to engage with my students on a more personal level. This flexibility allows me to incorporate their interests and experiences into the lessons, making them more relatable and engaging. For instance, I can bring in news articles, movies, songs, or even memes that they can relate to and discuss. This approach has made the English classes much more dynamic and enjoyable for both the students and me. Additionally, teaching English also offers me the opportunity to improve my language skills as I learn from my students and their unique perspectives on the language. Overall, teaching English has been a fulfilling experience that has allowed me to connect with my students on a deeper level, learn from them, and improve my own skills in the process.

In conclusion, being a teacher is a fulfilling career that comes with its own set of challenges. As a teacher, I understand that not every student will hear what I say, but I believe that those who do will make all of my efforts worthwhile. Just like the man throwing the starfish back into the ocean, I may not be able to change the world, but I can change the world for one student, and that's what matters most.

Article by Marcelo Gameiro

Published 23 Feb 2023

https://mgameirollc.uteach.io/blog/changing-the-world-one-student-at-a-time-reflections-of-a-dedicated-teacher

 

The Importance of Taking Initiative in Language Learning: A Lesson from a Brave University Student

The Importance of Taking Initiative in Language Learning: A Lesson from a Brave University Student

Today, I ventured out of my usual West campus routine and headed over to South campus for a lunch invitation with a student. Unfortunately, they didn't show up, but I managed to strike up conversations with other students around me. While most seemed disinterested or had language barriers, there was one exceptional student who stood out.

Sitting a few tables away from me, this student had the courage to approach me and introduce herself. She asked me to help her practice her pronunciation, and I happily obliged. It's students like her who have the drive to overcome their shyness and take initiative that always have better English.

If all university students were like this brave individual, they too would be speaking English at a higher level. In today's world, English proficiency is increasingly important, and taking the initiative to practice and improve is crucial. Check out my other post on the significance of learning English to see just how essential it is.

Article by Marcelo Gameiro

Published 22 Feb 2023

https://mgameirollc.uteach.io/blog/the-importance-of-taking-initiative-in-language-learning-a-lesson-from-a-brave-university-student