Reciprocal Teaching in School
Reciprocal teaching is a special educational procedure where students take on the roles of teachers – they become the organisers and conductors of the learning process. This pedagogical approach heightens both independent and initiative-driven student activity, which in turn cultivates leadership skills and fosters responsibility. This active form of pedagogical interaction allows the students to perceive their learning environment in a new way. They begin to understand a range of adult responsibilities, gaining valuable knowledge and experiences about the decision-making processes inherent within teaching.
One of the most important advantages of reciprocal teaching is the development of students’ leadership skills. As part of acting like teachers, children learn how to make lesson plans, manage the learning process and coordinate actions of their class. In the role of 'teaching' and managing their class, the students come face-to-face with the challenges of the real-life teaching profession – creating timetables, organising academic events, maintaining discipline and more.
As a part of the whole-school activities - in terms of reciprocal teaching for middle and upper classes may become reciprocal teaching days. Holding this campaign may offer students valuable first-hand teaching experience, it also reinforces better understanding and fosters closer relationships between teachers and students. During the preparatory phase for the reciprocal teaching day, the students may undergo a series of various development courses and training sessions to ensure that they are equipped with the necessary pedagogical competencies.
Participation in reciprocal teaching allows the students to see the process from the opposite side, which helps them to understand the educational process more deeply, thus becoming more successful learners in future. Another beneficial utilisation of reciprocal teaching is creating a positive shift in classroom relationships - the value of each student’s opinion becomes more important, which motivates them to participate in different class activities.
In conclusion, reciprocal teaching serves as an excellent platform for developing communication skills, leadership characteristics, and independent decision-making skills. It reveals potential within each student, paving the way for their successful socialisation and adaptation within the school environment and the world beyond.
Miss Tatiana, Reception/Year 1 Teacher
