Have you ever considered that pop culture might be a good place to start when studying pedagogy? From the pages of books to screens of all sizes, fictional teachers can be great sources of inspiration for teachers and students alike. Check out these tips and tricks from some fictional favorites!
 | Professor Dumbledore (Harry Potter)“It matters not what someone is born, but what they grow to be.” Albus Percival Wulfric Brian Dumbledore is one of the most recognizable characters from the Harry Potter series. Headmaster at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, he demonstrates wisdom from years of experience along with a calm demeanor that gives students a sense of security. Dumbledore is a professor who can recognize a student’s ability and strives to help them reach their full potential. |
 | Mr. Feeny (Boy Meets World)“Education is not about obscure facts and little test scores. Education is about the overall effects of years of slow absorption. Concepts, philosophies, approaches to problem solving. The whole process is so grand and all-encompassing that it really can’t be threatened by the occasional late-night no-hitter.”If you need advice, Mr. Feeny’s got your back. With some of the best quotes from any teacher on television, he has taught his fair share of lessons, both in and out of the classroom. Mr. Feeny is a teacher who not only focused on making good students, but good people as well. |
 | Ms. Frizzle (The Magic School Bus)“Take chances, make mistakes, get messy!”Without a doubt, Ms. Valerie Frizzle is the queen of field trips. She encourages students to step out of their comfort zone, take risks, and ask questions along the way. Every day is an adventure in Ms. Frizzle’s classroom! |
 | Professor McGonagall (Harry Potter)”We teachers are rather good at magic, you know.”J.K. Rowling has written multiple high-caliber teachers into existence throughout the Harry Potter book series. A powerful figure (and a personal favorite), Professor Minerva McGonagall is no stranger to the rules, and is never afraid to tell it like it is. At the same time, she also shows great compassion and is always concerned with the wellbeing of her students, making her quite the well-rounded educator. |
 | Mr. Holland (Mr. Holland’s Opus)“Playing music is supposed to be fun. It’s about heart, it’s about feelings, moving people, and something beautiful, and it’s not about notes on a page. I can teach you notes on a page, I can’t teach you that other stuff.”Mr. Holland is proof that a teacher’s support can go a long way. He strives to find new methods of teaching to motivate every student, finding ways to connect and make learning exciting. Teachers like Mr. Holland are sure to have an incredibly positive impact on their pupils. |
 | Professor Keating (Dead Poets Society)”No matter what anybody tells you, words and ideas can change the world.”With his fair share of wonderful quotes, Professor Keating shows genuine interest in his students. He celebrates their triumphs, and struggles along with them through their difficulties. His passion shows every step of the way. His enthusiasm is incandescent, encouraging his students to reach for their aspirations, because nothing is unattainable. |
 | Bonus Teacher: Economics Teacher (Ferris Bueller’s Day Off)“Bueller… Bueller…”Attendance is important, too. |
