What Do Students Think Makes a Great Teacher in Hawai‘i?

Abstract

Many different ethnic groups living on a small Island has created a culture in Hawai‘i that is unique in the world. Teachers play an important role in helping to shape the future, and while many studies have looked at the qualities of an effective teacher, very few studies have explored what it means to be a great teacher in Hawai‘i. In this study the researcher attempted to answer the research question “What do students think makes a great teacher in Hawai‘i?” by interviewing sixteen students (seven individual interviews and a nine-person focus group interview). Five themes emerged as a result of the interviews: understanding the Hawai‘i culture, teaching the content, classroom management, building relationships, and overcoming challenges. The study concludes by offering recommendations to the Hawai‘i Department of Education, teacher preparation programs, and teachers.