What does it mean to be an effective educator? Analysing the qualities for a successful and interesting career as an educator in the 21st century

“It appears, therefore, that of all secular professions, teaching is the most profoundly important” (Menzies, 1945). These are the words of the leader of the opposition, the politician Mr Robert Menzies, to the Australian House of Representatives in 1945 (Robertson, 2015). Although these words were spoken quite long time ago, the echo of Menzies’ words seems to still reflect the present time. Therefore, one can rest assured that “teaching is the world’s most important profession” (Cox, 2019). If you are an educator reading this article, you may know from your own professional experience that educators (teachers in general) can make a positive impact in students’ lives. In the eyes of Rose (2014), in general, the whole teaching process can be immensely satisfying. Similarly, for Cox (2019), “teaching is immensely satisfying and exciting”.