Communicating with students is facilitated when teachers are culturally competent, reflective, and understanding. While teachers can avoid conflicts by reflecting on and modifying communication practices, some students may continue to be confrontational in order to feel empowered because they often feel powerless in their schools and communities.How can teachers help students feel empowered in a positive way?
Alright, so I had to call for backup on this one. My cousin, Liz, teaches Spanish at LeFlore H.S. and she said that it's the little things that start to build up students' confidence and help them to break down their walls.
ReplyDeleteThings like being the first one to finish an assignment, or being chosen to lead an activity, or getting the highest grade on a quiz. These are high school kids, yet they still relish in the small acomplishments that allow them to shine-if only for a moment.
Her advice was-get to know your students and design activities that you know that they can excell in.
She added that students should ALWAYS ALWAYS ALWAYS be treated with respect-even when they don't give it back, or don't seem to deserve it. They never forget an eye roll or a frustrated sigh, or an offhand comment.
Respect begets respect-respect is empowerment.
Thanks for seeking outside help. I agree that students who feel confident in their accomplishments would feel more empowered too. If we give students respect even if they do not give it back, we can hopefully form relationships in which the students will begin to give respect. They may begin to feel empowered in their ability to interact with teachers in productive ways. Thanks!
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