What does empathy in teaching primarily aim to enhance?

Empathy in teaching primarily aims to enhance student engagement and understanding. When teachers demonstrate empathy, they connect with students on a personal level, which fosters a supportive and nurturing learning environment. This connection allows teachers to better understand their students' emotions, experiences, and perspectives, ultimately leading to more effective communication and tailored instructional strategies. As a result, students feel more valued and understood, which increases their motivation and willingness to participate in the learning process. This engagement can significantly improve their comprehension of the material being taught.

While emotional intelligence of the teacher can be a byproduct of practicing empathy, the primary goal of empathy in the classroom is to strengthen the relationship between teacher and student, thereby enhancing the overall learning experience. Teacher authority and standardized learning outcomes, while important in their own right, do not directly relate to the core objective of fostering empathy within educational settings.