Blog 5, Chapter 4 - Discussion Director (In-Class) AND Creative Connector - Elizabeth
"A new student from India comes to your school and ... she begins eating rice with her hands." (Nieto, 1999, p. 74)
It is ALWAYS important to remember that cultural differences exist, and that students from different ethnicities and cultural groups will bring various actions and affects to the classroom. For example, a student from Iran will likely be offended by the "thumbs up" symbol that is used positively in America but is an insult in many Middle Eastern countries. Likewise, students from Japan and other Asian countries may not hold eye contact with a teacher because to do so in his or her home country is offensive to those in authority.
"My philosophy has always been - start from where they are and go together to someplace else." (Nieto, 1999, p. 75)
I tell my students often that I do not have all the answers they need in order to be successful in mastering the academic content expected of them. I always celebrate when they know "more" than I do, and especially when they are comfortable enough to share their knowledge when I am unfamiliar with a concept or when I make a mistake! Teachers should be open-minded and confident enough to learn right along with their students, encouraging their students to "be the teacher" when they possess "expert" knowledge.
"Freire says, 'Dialogue is the sealing together of the teacher and the students in the joint act of knowing and re-knowing the object of study.'" (Nieto, 1999, p. 95)
Teachers must, must, must talk with their students. Talking "to" or "at" them establishes an ineffective and unhealthy relationship of control over student learning. Students truly must take responsibility for their learning in order for "true" learning to occur.
I also believe that it is very important for a teacher to learn along with their students. Every moment should be looked upon as a teaching and learning moments becasue their are always opportunities where something new can be taught and learned. Its also important for a teacher to admit when they are wrong or don't know something in order to be a positive role model for the students and show that you don't always need to know the answer, it is okay to be wrong.
ReplyDeleteShawne
I could not stand it when I had been in school and there had been teachers who spent their teaching time reprimanding negative behavior and trying to control every aspect of the class. I understand the instructor needs to have control over the classroom but in a way which is personal and shows the students u care. Developing a personal relationship and talking with them helps students to understand you really do care and are less likely to act out for attention. This will also help them become independent learners as they take on more responsibilities.
ReplyDelete-Christina
I definitely think there are times when you should ignore some behaviors, especially at the younger grades. Teachers certainly have different levels of tolerance and patients, but I think to an extent we all need to be able to communicate in a gentle and caring manner regardless of the situation.- Laura
ReplyDelete