Everyone who chooses to become a teacher does so for reasons that are as unique to them as any other aspect of their identity. Nevertheless, most of the time it isn’t money or the three-month summer vacation. Reasons for becoming a teacher are deeper than that. And while each person’s motivations are unique, almost all teachers share the desire to have an impact on people. Budget issues and low teacher retention are problems in high-needs schools in the US, and students continue to drop out at alarming rates. So, what’s calling you? Why do you want to teach?.
Why employers ask “Why do you want to teach?”
The following guidelines will assist you in formulating an effective response to the interview question, “Why do you want to teach? “:
1. Be honest
Your commitment and motivations are revealed by a sincere and considerate response to this question. Though you shouldn’t mention the benefits as a motivating factor, such as having summers off, it’s crucial that your response is totally honest. Since every person has a different career path, your response should be specific to you and your experiences. By doing so, interviewers can better understand your personality and level of professionalism.
2. Provide an anecdote
To further explain and provide context for your response, use examples, tales, and memories. Additionally, adding a personal anecdote can help your response stand out and be more impactful. You can either use memorable experiences from your teaching career or a time when you imparted knowledge to someone else before deciding to become a teacher.
3. Detail your reasons for becoming a teacher
A teacher can play a variety of roles in the lives of their pupils, including that of a mentor, leader, or motivator. Mention the type of influence you hope to have on your students’ lives.
4. Talk about your favorite teacher
Another typical interview question about your favorite teacher in school tends to follow naturally from this one. Talk about the best teacher you’ve ever had, how they inspired you or changed your life, and why their influence was so significant to you to begin this conversation. The qualities of your favorite teacher that you mention can give employers a good idea of the kind of teacher you are and aspire to be in addition to giving insight into your career goals.
Example answers
When writing your own response to the interview question “Why do you want to teach?,” use these powerful example responses as a guide.
Example 1: Inspiring teacher
“My 11th grade English teacher, Mrs. Aman, was a huge inspiration to me. She is unquestionably one of the main reasons I came to have such a passion for literature and why I chose to pursue teaching as a career. Although she was incredibly passionate about the subject, her teaching style was lighthearted and approachable. In the same way that she was able to, I hope to design a classroom that inspires my students to enjoy learning. “.
Example 2: Teaching philosophy
In elementary school, I had a lot of trouble learning to read, and I recall feeling so lost and perplexed because I couldn’t figure it out. My teacher, Mrs. Armstrong started tutoring me after school, and she quickly identified that my inability to understand the difference between hard and soft sounds was the source of my problems. She started showing me the difference with sandpaper, and it worked. I’ve always been so appreciative of her creativity and dedication to meeting me where I was, qualities that I try to incorporate into my own teaching. “.
Example 3: Memorable teaching moment
“In my first year of teaching, I was given the responsibility of a student who appeared disinterested and distant. I kept talking to him one-on-one and experimenting with different approaches to try to engage him. I eventually decided to make a sort of game show for the kids about the lesson after much trial and error, and the entire classroom loved it. When it was his turn, he correctly responded to a question about biomes, and the happiness I experienced confirmed that I had made the right career decision. “.
Example 4: Impact on the educational system
“I want to train as a teacher so that I can truly impact the lives of children.” I take my responsibility to mold children into compassionate, considerate, and valuable adults very seriously. I’ve always been incredibly appreciative of my teachers and the educational system for helping to shape who I am today. I only wish I could have the same kind of a positive influence on my students’ minds and hearts. “.
Example 5: Empowering students
“There are so many kids who need love, comfort, and attention, and I try to be the one to give it to them when no one else ever has,” I want to demonstrate to my students that anything is possible for them if they put forth the necessary effort and commitment. In my classroom, I want to provide a secure environment where cooperation and empathy are rewarded with the same enthusiasm as high test scores. I firmly believe that by fostering compassion and understanding, I can assist students in realizing their full potential. “.
WHY DO YOU WANT TO BE A TEACHER? Teacher Interview Questions and Answers!
FAQ
How do you answer why do you want to teach?
- they love learning and being in a learning environment.
- teaching is a job with a lot of variety.
- teaching is a way of serving their communities.
- they like the creativity and independence teaching offers.
- they want summers off.
- they want to make a difference in people’s lives.
Why did you choose the teaching profession?
You can advance your career by becoming a teacher, which not only offers a consistent income and excellent job satisfaction. The opportunities are endless, from working in exotic locations to teaching online from the comfort of your home to starting your own TEFL company.
