I took my time responding to the TED video because I really wanted a moment with the subject to ponder what it is that 'I' feel on the matter. Since it's been a quarter of a century since I sat behind the desk of a high school class room and I have very few 'active memories' as to what my 'pros' and 'cons' were in those moments, I beg forgiveness, before hand, for my aloofness on the subject. It isn't that I don't care; on the contrary, I just don't have much in the way of comparison, so having an opinion, at this moment, is strictly that... an opinion and has very little merit to substantiate my thoughts one way or the other.
That said, I found the TED video very entertaining and somewhat enlightening. From what I understand, based on former President George W. Bush’s active program to “Leave No Child Behind” it appears that we, as a country, are focusing the teachings of academics to a sub-standard test and not to the strengths of our children. This is detrimental and a recipe for disaster since we take away the creativity of our future generations not to mention, give away our nations secrets by allowing ALL children access to the information we build our national defenses upon.
I feel, programs that encourage ‘out of the box’ critical thinking enhances future problem solving skills that could very well ‘save us all’ in a post apocalyptic environment, or as I like to call it… life with teenaged daughters…
In regards to what I believe makes a good teacher… hmmmmm… well, I guess that depends. Of course there are the typical standardized answers” Patients, Kindness, Compassion or Dedication, but, do those qualities truly make up a ‘good teacher?’ I’m on the fence with this question because sometimes, good teachers know when to be ‘bad’ in the efforts of driving a point or maybe even going out on a limb to provide the proverbial ‘tough love’ needed to guide a student in the right direction. A good teacher might know when to bend the rules in an effort to build a repartee with a student as well as when to tow the line for those that may need a strict regiment conducive to their learning style. Then again, a good teacher should know and understand all of the above, adapt to the child and overcome any challenge in their efforts to usher in a breadth of knowledge each and every child is entitles to.
I will keep you up-dated as my views change on the subject matter. Until then, remember your three “R’s”… Rest, Recount and Really Try Hard in ALL you do!
Great post, I enjoyed reading it as you made some interesting points. Especially the humor in it haha.
ReplyDeleteI don't think there's a one size fits all for a good teacher. That's like asking what makes a good person? It all goes back to the person ethics and values. I also liked the "Three R's" concept. That's one concept that I will remember.