The assumption behind programs like Teach for America is that smart people, even if they have no teaching experience, can make good teachers. I have always been skeptical of this assumption, because going to Harvard has nothing to do with your ability to teach. However, my first week in Korea has taught me that you can be a decent teacher if you are "smart" in that:
You think quickly on your feet
You know the material so well, you can explain it multiple ways
You can analyze mistakes and immediately identify the conceptual problem
You sound knowledgeable
Even then, only professional development and experience can teach you how to manage and discipline a class of 30 students effectively. So the TFA skepticism remains.
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