Day 15 - Do You Have Teaching Intelligence?

Teaching intelligence (TQ) is a critical skill that bridges the gap between knowing a subject and delivering it in a way that inspires curiosity.

Hey Fam,

Thanks for stopping by.

I've had many amazing conversations with fellow educators about their areas of expertise.?

From anthropologists to business savants, I've been in rooms with people who have taught for 50 years and others who are first-time educators. I've often asked them how they learned how to "teach." It is clear to me that all of these educators have content expertise, but were they ever taught how to deliver that content in a classroom where students' needs change every semester?

More often than not, they respond, "No, I just figured it out over time."

I've been in education for over a decade and have never been taught how to teach. I learned as I went along. But imagine if educators could reference a concept or framework to how effective they were in the classroom beyond the traditional pedagogical method and assess what I call teaching intelligence or "TQ."

When we think about great educators, their content expertise stands out, as does their ability to connect with their students.?

Teaching intelligence (TQ) is a critical skill that bridges the gap between knowing a subject and delivering it in a way that inspires curiosity. It's what turns a routine lesson into an engaging, eye-opening experience. Educators with high "TQ" adapt to their students' changing needs, making every topic accessible and intriguing. This ability to connect with students is more than making class enjoyable; it's essential for sparking the kind of interest and understanding that fuels a lifetime of learning.?

To truly excel as an educator, developing "TQ" is as crucial as mastering the subject matter itself.

You may be asking yourself, "Well, how do I develop "teaching intelligence" (TQ)?

Drawing from my teaching experience, I've developed the TEACH WE framework to help educators inspire lifelong learning and create a deeper connection with their students. It distills the essence of "teaching intelligence" (TQ) into tangible actions that can turn any classroom into a space of intellectual curiosity and personal growth. Each letter represents a pillar that helps close the gap between “teaching” and learning.

Let me explain.

Imagine stepping into a classroom where every lesson is a passport to the student's interests, a world where education is a journey tailored to the ambitions and wonders of each learner. That's the "T" in my TEACH WE philosophy—tailoring content?to match students' interests and needs, ensuring every student feels seen and valued.

With "E," we?engage?students by connecting theories to the real world, turning abstract concepts into concrete applications. We show them the "why" behind the "what," making learning relevant and exciting.

"A" is for?activating creative thinking. Here, we promote collaboration and collective intelligence, where ideas bounce and resonate, leading to breakthroughs that travel beyond classroom walls.

In "C," we strive to?create a brave, inclusive, and positive learning environment. It's a space where every student finds a home, a place of belonging, and the freedom to express their true selves.

The "H" stands for?harnessing student curiosity, fueling a love for lifelong learning. It's where we work to ignite that spark, turning the flash of interest into a passion that continues well beyond their time with us in the class.

"W" reminds us to?witness their journey—offering more than grades but guidance, positive feedback, and constructive criticism, nurturing their personal and professional growth with every step they take.

Finally, "E" is where we?embrace empathy, the foundation of connection and understanding. It's what transforms a classroom into a learning community, allowing us to meet students where they are and guide them to where they could be.

Hopefully, what I've shared helps you to understand the idea of teaching intelligence, or "TQ," and you see its potential power in the classroom.?

Remember, great educators don't just have content expertise; they have a deep understanding of how that content is delivered and articulated to their students. Educators with high "TQ" don't simply teach; they turn classes into experiences that stick with students far beyond the classroom. These educators know that every student's mind is different, so they tailor their style to meet students where they are.?

We are the architects of curiosity, constructing lessons that inform and transform, empowering our students with the skills to learn and think independently.

So, I challenge you to raise your “TQ” because our students deserve it.?

Thank you for your time today. I appreciate you.?

Much Love,

Dr. Jae