In the chapter “Practicing What We Teach,” author Miles Irving took a scary step in proving to himself and his students that he could critically reflect on his own biases and be an activist in confronting those biases. What steps can we take to lead by example and let students know that we are practicing what we teach --- that we expect the same from ourselves and from our students.
I kindly confront students about their remarks that encourage stereotyping, bias, or racism. I try to remind them that these comments are based on misinformation and could have harmful effects on students and adults. What more can we do to make a lasting impact and a statement of personal reflection?
Read this short blog about teachers as life-long learners.
Ya know there is an excellent study that was produced in the 60s called blue eyes/brown eyes. I think that study should be shown starting at about the age the same kids in the study. It does an excellent job helping kids fundamentally understand just how unfair discrimination is, and how discrimination leads to manipulation. You should look into it.
ReplyDeleteI think that challenging students' perceptions can help show students that the teacher is practicing what he/she thinks. I agree that illustrating to students how some of their beliefs are not founded on historical truths but rather on cultural misrepresentations is important. The students and the teacher should study and explore together on how these racial/cultural groups actually are and what their histories and contributions are.
ReplyDeleteI agree with KHardin, that teachers and students should study and explore racial/cultural groups together. Many times teachers say they live by example when they don't. We as adults find it hard to change the beliefs that were taught to us from a young age even if we know they are wrong. I think if we start to be true to ourselves then it will come out in our actions. Teachers correcting student is a great start but who corrects the teacher when he/she is wrong?
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