A theme from this semester that has had the greatest impact on me as a future educator is, ‘How do we talk about issues that matter?’ When doing Module 5, the reading,”Fostering Civil Discourse” from Facing History, was a very significant source in helping me understand the importance of addressing important issues in the classroom. I feel one of the most important things that I learned, and plan to share with my students, is to remember that it is not a goal to change someone's opinion when you're discussing 'difficult' topics. These topics are not difficult, but rather unknown. As an educator, the impact this had on me is that I can address civil discourse by making these topics known to my students by helping them gain a greater understanding of the topic by listening to and acknowledging other perspectives. When we are able to truly listen and understand other viewpoints, that is when we are able to change and adjust our own opinions. This also impacted me in the way that I want to prioritize my students’ opinions and ideas because it is beneficial for young minds to feel valued, and heard. I want to implement this in my classroom by guiding my students through discussing opinionated topics with one another. This is definitely a learned skill for many, but it is important that students are able to do so from a young age. Having such a skill can prepare them for many aspects of life, including how to be well-informed and understanding members of their community.
Hi Sefora, I also thought that the topic “How do we Talk about Issues that Matter?” was one of the most impactful modules. I like what you took away from the topic. I agree that it is very important to teach students early on how to have a calm discussion without trying to convince the other person to switch their point of view. I think that is the hardest part in all of this. When I was younger, I never really understood why everyone had different points of view and where they all came from. I always assumed the way I viewed something was the correct way and everyone else was wrong. I think if this strategy was brought into my classroom, I would have been more educated as I went on to middle school and high school about differing opinions and how to listen to everyone even if I don’t completely agree with their standpoint.
ReplyDeleteHey Sefora, Firstly, I just wanted to say you are incredibly well-spoken (or I suppose written). I love the way you worded and articulated your thoughts. I had never thought about difficult topics as unknown, but I agree completely. That's the whole reason they are so difficult. As well, I think it is so important, like you mentioned, to give the students tools to form their own opinions weather than teaching them to have the same ones as yourself. Giving them the tools to do that from a young age is critical.
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