Seeing the continual development of the group's relationship and experiencing their highs and lows through the weeks are all an integral part of the teacher trainer's job. More interestingly, much can be learned about the human personality and its effect upon group dynamics. In this article I would like to define, based on my own experience, some broad 'personality types' of trainee teacher which I have often seen appear during certificate courses. I will also describe some ways in which the trainer can use character traits to bring out the best in new teachers both working as a group and individually. The way in which trainees interact with each other and respond to trainer advice and feedback appears to play a large part in an individual's degree of success on a teaching course.
Personality seems to be a very important factor.
Despite first impressions, groups of trainees which I have worked with have nearly always appeared to split off into different 'types' which I believe are closely related to individual personalities. The Organiser Organisers usually quickly develop as group leaders. They are full of ideas, although not necessarily always good ones, and are thorough lesson planners and preparers. They listen carefully to peer and trainer suggestions and can often adapt them to come up with an even better lesson activity. Generally creative, they might be found in a corner somewhere cutting and sticking, drawing pictures or helping colleagues with their lesson preparation.