Slide8 Teacher roles
In the early stages of learning the teacher operates in a supportive role, providing target language translations and a model for imitation on request of the clients.
Later, interaction may be initiated by the students, and the teacher monitors learner utterances, providing assistance when requested.
As learning progresses, students become increasingly capable of accepting criticism, and the teacher may intervene directly to correct deviant utterances, supply idioms, and advise on usage and fine points of grammar.
The teacher's role is initially likened to that of a nurturing parent. The student gradually "grows"' In ability, and the nature of the relationship changes so that the teacher's position becomes somewhat dependent upon the learner.
The knower derives a sense of self-worth through requests for the knower's assistance.