Blog #7

 

What to Look for in a Classroom

By Alfie Kohn

Reflection: 

    It's incredible that as I read the poster, many images and activities flashed through my mind regarding the different classes I've taken throughout my college years. I've transitioned from traditional classes to more unconventional ones. What Kohn explains about the differences between "Good Signs" and "Possible Reasons to Worry" is as important for us to understand as it is for future teachers.

    Ultimately, it is our responsibility to reconsider whether we want to create a classroom environment that fosters active learning or one that promotes obedience and conformity. Following Kohn's ideas, we must look beyond grades and focus on how the classroom community feels and is built. There is a phrase I really liked from his book: "I was treating students like rows of wide-open bird beaks waiting for worms." This example serves as a poignant reminder that teachers often assume what works for one student will work for all, but that is not always the case.

    In this class, I have not only learned to know myself better, but I am also more aware of what social justice is and how it influences schools. It is truly satisfying to know that there are teachers who genuinely strive to help students learn. Before transferring to Ric, I never considered the possibility that teaching could also be fun, rather than just a systematic act with chairs in rows, blank walls, and a single person speaking (the teacher). At Ric, the teachers I've had so far listen to me; if I don't understand, they try to explain it to me in a way that I can understand. Above all, they make the classes more dynamic, making it impossible for me not to love the process.

    I changed careers six months ago because I genuinely enjoy helping people, so I thought the best way to do so was to start from the bottom as a teacher. However, as I examined the school system, it discouraged me because I don't want to simply teach one assignment and then move on to another without taking a moment to reflect. I wanted and want much more. I want students to learn to relate what I give them to everyday life. As a future Spanish teacher, it is my duty to ensure that students understand that learning a second language is not just about grammar; it's more than that; it's the opportunity to explore thousands of cultures and histories.

    Kohn highlights the distinction between making a difference in our classrooms and around our schools, versus continuing the same practices we employed years ago. He wants us to think about whether we want to be routine teachers or teachers who genuinely make a difference. Maybe the district won't let us change the themes we've had for years, and I'm dreaming too much, but small steps make a difference, just like Ms. Bogad does. She teaches us that even the simplest things, such as a card game, have a valuable lesson behind them.

    I've always heard that the government is terrified of children having imaginations because then they'd realize they could do much more than what's already dictated. So, they create a system where we all stand with our heads down, listening to what our teachers have to say without even forming our own opinions, and that's something we need to change.

Connection:

Introduction to Culturally Relevant Pedagogy

Alfie Kohn and Introduction to Culturally Relevant Pedagogy advocate or desire a teaching style more focused on the human person and, of course, on the students. Kohn opposes educational systems that like to explore students' natural drive to learn, often considering them simply as "interchangeable vessels" of information, which is quite interesting in my opinion... In contrast, Culturally Relevant Pedagogy offers a significant way to break away from this mentality, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and honoring the diverse cultural backgrounds that each student brings. Here, we see that both ideas go hand in hand.

By fully embracing Culturally Relevant Pedagogy, we can realize Kohn's vision: which is above all about creating schools that not only promote authentic learning, but also support moral growth and awaken intrinsic motivation in students. This foundation is about transforming classrooms into environments where students feel recognized and valued, and that's pretty valuable if you ask me. The connection between teachers is magnificent..

https://www.alfiekohn.org/article/teach-values/

Question to Share:

After reading this author, I have many questions, but the most important one is: What do you think is most important in a classroom: Continuing with the traditional, almost gray system of controlled grading, or building a community where students learn actively and meaningfully?