From my perspective, based on many decades of educational experience, the three most important elements of a highly effective teacher are: 1. To create an empathic classroom environment and ensure that the environment actively supports students in the work of learning (mindsets, connections, community); 2.  To master the skill of actively and effectively engaging students’ attention prior to and throughout the class.  3.  To be a master of their cognitive domain possessing comprehensive knowledge of their chosen subject material.

This month I will discuss the first principle of effective teaching - empathy.