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Essay / Educational article: Six steps to successful co-teaching
The article “6 steps to successful co-teaching” also discusses six useful tips to implement in the classroom for successful co-teaching. With the first step being building relationships as teachers, students will be able to tell if there is tension between teachers so they will feel more comfortable if the teachers are as well. The second step is to identify the two different teaching styles. Teachers need to find a balance and create a cohesive classroom. The third step is to have the two teachers discuss strengths and weaknesses. By knowing teachers' strengths and weaknesses from the start, they can see who can reach more students in different areas. Discussing IEPs and educational goals is the fourth step, and by doing so, both teachers will have a better understanding. The fifth step is to develop an action plan and act in a unified manner in all areas. Being consistent is very crucial in class and even outside of it. The final step is to take risks and grow. The article explains how co-teaching creates a safety net allowing teachers to take more risks than when they are alone (Marston). Having two teachers, each with their own knowledge and expertise, working to meet student needs and promote learning for all students is very beneficial to a classroom, but it also has disadvantages. For some, it takes time to get used to working with another person.