Master teacher: how do you define one?

What makes a “master clinician teacher”—adapted from George Couros, an educator.

This list can be used for teachers in med students, residency and in nephrology fellowship as well.

·         Connects with students and gets to know them individually.

·         Helps students to meet their own individual needs as each might have their own learning styles

·         Makes the curriculum and what is taught relevant.

·         Works with students to develop their love of learning, helping students to find their own spark in learning( concept of intrinsic motivation –often lacking in our trainees)

·         Keeps themselves as a teacher up-to-date. Education and learning will always change ( being a learner for life makes you a better teacher)

·         Focuses on learning goals as opposed to performance goals.

·         Ensures that “character education” is an essential part of learning. Students need to grow emotionally as well as mentally( this is critical in creating the culture for constant life long learning and work life balance)

·         Is passionate about the content they teach( THIS is by far the MOST important quality)

·         Is concerned not just with what is taught in their class but with their overall impact on the school culture( Making a cultural difference is critical on perhaps methods of teaching)

·         Communicates well with all the stakeholders and not just the students( a subtle but needed politician)

·         Behaves as a facilitator of learning- not a “spoon feeder”

All our fellows out there, I am sure you have one mentor who exemplifies these qualities. This is what makes the experience of learning a more meaningful experience. Please take a minute to salute and respect all our teachers and educators in our lives. They teach you medicine but they also may be teaching you a way of life!