How do I engage students, establish rules, and build relationships?
Becoming a reflective teacher is a career-long commitment to never being "finished." As Dr. Marzano’s research suggests, the most effective teachers are those who remain perpetual students of their own craft.
A key outcome of becoming a reflective teacher is the creation of a formal Professional Growth Plan. According to Marzano, an effective PGP should include: Becoming a Reflective Teacher Dr. Robert J. Marzano.pdf
This involves choosing specific instructional elements to improve, rather than trying to change everything at once.
Choose 1–3 specific strategies to master over a semester or year (e.g., "Improving the use of graphic organizers"). How do I engage students, establish rules, and
By reflecting on these areas, teachers can identify "growth goals." For example, a teacher might realize through reflection that while their content delivery is strong, their methods for engaging students during long lectures are lacking. The Role of Video and Peer Observation
Reflective teaching is not a solo sport. Engaging with a coach or a peer allows for an outside perspective that can challenge "status quo" thinking. Creating a Professional Growth Plan (PGP) A key outcome of becoming a reflective teacher
The "Marzano Effect" is ultimately about the students. Reflective teaching is the vehicle, but student success is the destination. When a teacher becomes more reflective, they become more agile. They can spot a misunderstanding in real-time and pivot their strategy because they have a deep "toolbox" of pedagogical moves they have practiced and refined.