A teacher's extensive knowledge of the subject he or she is teaching is pivotal to the effectiveness of learning in the classroom. This knowledge includes core concepts and skills, real-life applications for what is being taught, and an understanding of key details as well as main topics. Teachers should have a deep awareness of what they are teaching, taking the initiative to prevent common misconceptions, offering historical context and setting, and answering student questions accurately. If a teacher is unable to answer a question, then the teacher should make a genuine effort to find the answer for the student. Tied into this component is pedagogy, the methods by which the information and skills are taught. Teachers might begin with the details and come eventually to the main point, or start with the main point before delving into the supporting details. They may allow students to have more freedom in discussions even if the discussion goes in a direction that is unanticipated, or they may intervene to keep students focused on the big questions. This domain of the Danielson Framework is important because it assesses a teacher's knowledge of the subject as well as their method of conveying this information.
References:
The Danielson Group. The Framework. Retrieved from http://www.danielsongroup.org/framework/
References:
The Danielson Group. The Framework. Retrieved from http://www.danielsongroup.org/framework/