One of our major roles, as educators (I believe) is to instil within our students the desire for and the skills with which to think critically about the world around them.
All of this first requires our students to be informed, so we teach that knowledge is power (again, because this leads us to the place where we can begin to put the puzzle together) . We teach that, to bury one's head in the sand is the antithesis of that which leads to a healthy, robust world view. (Not to mention, to look the other way has led us to some historically bad policy decisions.) Because we teach this, how can we do anything but demand this of ourselves? This cultural and political relevance is a major asset in any teacher's toolbox. Without it, we can't rightly form (educated) opinions, nor can we teach these things to the children/youth in our midst. So, how do we remain informed? WATCH We gather information by watching. Yes, this includes traditional forms of media (news outlets, etc.), but it also means taking note of those things that are happening around us. Yes, we must be aware of decisions being made in Victoria, Ottawa and around the world, but we must also be looking for those subtle shifts within our own backyards. We must learn to notice the details, and to "follow up". LISTEN Related to watching, the ability to listen helps us to know those things that are happening around us, in addition to giving us that which we need in order to respond. However, it's important for us to listen to the positions of others. Not with bated breathe- waiting to interject with "the truth of the matter"- but rather, with an ear of teachability. "Prove to me that I am at fault, and I will correct my path". READ Finally, we need to be teachers who read, veraciously- on a host of topics. This will help to give us that which we need to convey appropriate information to our students. In sum... The act of being informed is a sacrifice; it takes time and resources. However, the idea of walking into a classroom without such knowledge flies in the face of that which we seek to teach, that being: to take information, dissect said information and to form a worldview based upon authentic reflection and values.
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My experience within the education program at VIU has been amazing. It's been a whirlwind, and, at points, it's been a hard ride, but it's been amazing nonetheless.
One of the things that has made this experience so great is the support of those who teach within the program (at all levels). I've enjoyed my time sitting under our various professors, instructors, supervising teachers and other staff members. I've enjoyed the planned lectures, as well as the unplanned, teachable moments. I've enjoyed the learning activities, as well as the moments of inspired spontaneity. But ultimately, what I've enjoyed most is the time spent sitting at the feet of those who've been a part of the system, and who know the ins and outs, the ups and downs, and the joys and frustrations of being a teaching professional. And as I think about the idea of "contributing to the profession", I've realized something. These moments in class; this time at VIU; these conversations with seasoned teaching professionals- they're not simply teaching us how to teach students; rather, these moments are teaching us (and modelling to us) how to teach and encourage other teachers. Because the truth is, one day, the shoe will be on the other foot. We'll be asked to take pre-beginning teachers under our wings, and in those moments, we'll think back to those who've helped to form us and our practice. I know, even know, that when I think back, I'm going to think back to faces that I've met during my time in the ED program at VIU. So, to those who've spent the time to teach us, thank-you. We're grateful for your investment in us. And down the line, when its our turn to invest in others, we'll do our best to carry ourselves with the same qualities that we saw (and continue to see) in you. |
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