Instructional practice, then, can be improved through professional development programs that encourage teachers to be reflective practitioners. For purposes of this document, teaching is used as the broader, more encompassing term. Effective instruction is interactive and designed to accommodate student learning needs and styles through a variety of teaching practices. Guiding Principles of Effective Instruction Effective instruction is guided by general pedagogical approaches and specific instructional practices. The approaches and instructional practices espoused in this document are based upon the following beliefs about what constitutes effective instructi on.
Effective instruction is eclectic.
Professional teaching practice is not constrained by a belief that there is one best way. Teachers should be invited to extend their range of instructional approaches in a secure, risk-taking environment. Effective instruction is tied directly to the success of the learning experience. Effective instruction occurs when the teacher links sound curriculum development and excellent instructional practice in a successful learning experience. Reciprocal, positive relationships between teacher and learner are also necessary for instruction to be truly effective.