The three approaches to teaching.

     What are the three approaches to teaching and which one would I use? When asked this question, I was not sure. In exploring each approach, I learned more about each approach. The executive approach is more of an authoritarian style of teaching. The teacher believes that it is necessary to have a firm control over the class. There are expectations and rules that must be adhered to at all times for the classroom to run smoothly. There is a seating chart and desks are in a uniform row or block that cannot be changed. Students are expected to remain in their seats at all times and absolutely no talking unless called upon by the teacher. There is little or no praise given to the students and discipline is strict.
     The next approach is the Facilitator Approach where the students are valued as a person more than someone to be controlled. It is most often used by a teacher that is more of an authoritative teacher. This teacher likes control and organization but also incourages independence in the students. The teacher is willing to explain the rules and why they are necessary. The students are encouraged to give verbal opinions and discussions and it is okay to interupt the teacher to ask relevant questions. Most authoritative teachers are warm and nurturing but will give out discipline in a firm manner. The student is often guided by the teacher through a project but not lead. The students are free to make choices and decisions regarding the material that they want to learn. The student is important to the teacher and is encouraged, praised, and treated with respect.
     The last approach is the Liberationist Approach, It allows the students to make their own choices on what they want to learn. If a child wants to learn how to build a computer instead of learning history, then it is acceptable for that student to research and carry out the project. It is believed that this will allow the students to think, imagine, investigate and create on their own. The teacher is there more for providing encouragement, to listen, to suggest, and to give support to the student.
     I feel that it is necessary to blend the three approaches to have a successful classroom. There needs to be structure, independence, caring , and creativity to have a solid bases for learning in today's world. I plan to have more of a blend between executive and facilitator as this will work best with younger children. I will try to apply the liberationist approach to some of my class studies as even young children need to be taught to make decisions for themselves and be able to do so in a manner that will promote success.