Teachers who love to teach do more than teaching
Some teachers conceive education as the mere transmission of knowledge. For them, it is only essential to be in the classroom and teach the students the content of the syllabus. This couldn’t be further from the truth. The reality is that students have needs, sometimes they become unmotivated or they simply do not even know how useful what they are addressing in class will be for them.
Teachers who love to teach do more than teaching. They discover new ways to make knowledge digestible, give it useful meaning, and understand the needs of their students. These education professionals put their efforts into creating an environment in which they inspire their pupils. Although they know their limitations and cannot always achieve the whole set of objectives with all their students, they do their best to leave a mark on the majority of their learners.
Chris Aspinall: A teacher that does more than teaching
Chris Aspinall is from Blackburn, England. He has been teaching internationally for around 15 years. His experience goes back as a Campsite Guide & Kids Entertainer at Eurocamp (2006-2007), Kindergarten Teacher at Denla Kindergarten (2008-2014), Reception Class Teacher at Storytime Preschool (2014-2017), Kindergarten and Grade 1 Teacher at Saint John Mary International School (2017-2020), and Head of Boarding at Canadian International School of Thailand (2020-2021). Currently, he works as the Head of Year 2 at Rugby School Thailand.
In his classroom, Mr Aspinall holds a steadfast belief that genuine connections with students are the cornerstone of successful learning. The methodology is clear in his own words:
“I am deeply committed to fostering meaningful relationships built on trust, respect and empathy. By understanding each student’s unique strengths, challenges and interests, I try to create a supportive and inclusive learning environment where they children feel valued and understood.” For him, through these connections, it’s possible to cultivate a sense of belonging, but also inspire a passion for learning that extends beyond the classroom.
“Building relationships with children is the key to learning”, according to Mr Aspinall. Once children know that you are there for them, care for them and want to help them learn, then it opens a world of possibilities. Actually, the American Psychological Association supports this idea as “Improving students’ relationships with teachers has important, positive and long-lasting implications for both students’ academic and social development.”
The next step for an inspiring teacher: Graduate studies at EIU-Paris
Besides holding a Bachelor of Education in English from Northwest Samar State University (Phillipines), Chris wanted to go even further and improve as an education professional. So, he starting searching on the Internet and found about the European International University, Paris. By pursuing one of our stellar graduate programs, the Master of Science in Innovative Education and Teaching (MSIET), he embarked on a journey to revolutionize his approach to education.
After getting Distinction Marks on this graduate degree, he commented on it: “This program from the EIU-Paris equipped me with the tools, knowledge, and skills necessary to adapt to the ever-evolving landscape of education. Through exploring innovative methodologies, emerging technologies, and progressive pedagogies, I was empowered to create engaging and effective learning experiences for my students.”
This qualification not only enhances teaching prowess but also opens doors to diverse career opportunities in educational leadership, curriculum development, and instructional design. Ultimately, it positions teachers as forward-thinking educators who are ready to shape the future of education.
EIU-Paris, a home for teachers all around the world
There are those who have from the very beginning the clear goal of being teachers, and there are also those to whom life gives the opportunity (as if by accident) to become educators. For either of them, it is clear that when starting this adventure there are many commitments involved. The obligations of a practicing professional require great efforts, as do personal responsibilities.
A Master of Science in Innovative Education and Teaching (MSIET) can equip teachers with a powerful blend of skills and knowledge to improve their teaching practice in several ways
- Deepen understanding of educational technology
- Develop stronger instructional design skills:
- Refine data analysis and assessment practices:
- Foster innovation and creativity:
- Stay current with educational trends:
Overall, a Master of Science in Innovative Education Technology can empower teachers to become more effective educators by equipping them with the skills to integrate technology strategically and thoughtfully into their teaching. This can lead to a more engaging and impactful learning experience for students
“A teacher affects eternity; he can never tell where his influence stops.” – Henry Adams. This quote perfectly captures the lasting impact Mr. Chris Aspinall has on his students. His dedication in teaching goes beyond the classroom, and his lessons will stay with the pupils forever.
Dr J Anand of EIU-Paris
Submitted by Alessandro Odoardi