Reaction:
In this chapter, one of Frank’s students ask him why he doesn’t do “real work” instead of being a teacher. Frank starts off answering this question with retelling his past work experiences on the docks in
What did I just read? This book makes me laugh because I never know who is talking, what they are talking about, and who they are talking to. I know that Frank started talking to his class about his work on the docks, but then was the rest of the flash back conveyed to his students as well? I am not sure, but if it was, that is bold.
My reaction to this chapter is the same reaction I had to one of James’ discussion questions. I feel it is important for your students to know that you are human and have a life outside of teaching. Now, this is a very fine line. There are, of course, many things that are inappropriate to talk about in the class and many other things that you should keep for yourself. But, I don’t see a problem with discussing certain aspects of your personal life with your kids keeping in mind what is deemed appropriate. Remember, in loco parentis.
Discussion:
There is a thin line between inappropriate and ok for school. What is that line? What do you think should be left out of a discussion between you and your students? What if a student came to you with a problem that you have had experience in? Do you share your thoughts and lessons learned? What if this topic is not suitable for the classroom?
2 comments:
Personally, I feel that aspects such as your education, sports teams, and even pets would be okay for discussion within the classroom. Those are areas that I feel would not open a teacher up for controversy in the classroom. Areas such as family life and sexual discussions should most likely be kept a private matter. I don't see any issue with discussing family and other issues with your faculty and co-workers. I feel as though students are looking to catch you in some way or another so a censor before you speak is a major key in teaching success.
There is a thin line between inappropriate and ok for school. What is that line? What do you think should be left out of a discussion between you and your students? What if a student came to you with a problem that you have had experience in? Do you share your thoughts and lessons learned? What if this topic is not suitable for the classroom?
As you said, Todd, there is definitely a thin line between what is and what is not appropriate for the classroom. I personally feel that my sex life and my personal problems are things that should almost never be shared with my students. I believe that my students will be looking to me for stability and reassurance, and they can’t have that from me if I’m always dumping my problems on them or forcing them to listen to topics that make them feel uncomfortable. My job is to help them and not the other way around.
If a student came to me with a problem that was not suitable for the classroom, I would probably send them to their parents, their friends, or someone who can give them professional advice. I would want them to know that I care about them and that I want them to get the best advice available, so hopefully, they wouldn’t think that I’m abandoning them or pushing them off onto someone else. If I had experienced a similar problem myself, I would also probably share the types of people I talked with in order to get through it. That way I could advise the student without getting into dangerous territory or divulging too much personal information.
Post a Comment