“Education
Is Politics” by Shor
I
found Shor’s article very interesting. This author argues that socialization
and democracy is what school should be all about. The author further explains
that society cannot be made unless people create it together. I do agree with
the author, that socialization helps make the people who make society. I always
wondered when I was younger, what is school, what is the point of it, and why
are we forced to go to school? I think it is a great idea for teachers to start
school and establish the reasoning of why students go to school. If students
know why they are doing something they will be more willing to do it, more
passionate, and more understanding; just like any person in any situation. As
Shor says, “people are naturally curious.” Therefore, children are going to
want to learn and discuss life and society. What we need to make sure is that
school systems are not just focusing on memorizing but more talking,
discussing, evaluating, experimenting, and giving children their own voice. I agree that a teacher’s main focus should be
to mediate between outside
authorities, formal knowledge, and individual students in the classroom.
Through day-to-day lessons, teaching link's the students' development to the values,
powers, and debates in society. Teachers need to make sure that there is mutual
dialogue. Are students being spoken to or spoken at? Teachers should talk about
things that are relative and can connect to present day situations. This point reminds
me of Meir, “Why Can’t She Remember That?” Students will be more involved if
the assignment is relative. Also, are tasks and assignments done in groups or
alone? People need to work together and learn how to share and compromise. Participation
is extremely important. Participation involves action and action is essential
to gain knowledge. If you do not participate you are dulling your mind and
ability to make your own life decisions. Learning should involve curiosity,
humor, and hope. A teacher should guide and not continually lecture and rule. Lastly,
students should ask questions and be aware. Shor argues many different points
about teaching in a classroom but I believe all are accurate and beneficial.
Ultimately, a classroom should be all about socialization and democracy.
Comment: I would like to share my video link because I think
it is very eye opening.
The picture below shows a
classroom with students initiating a discussion by themselves, and learning
from one another.
The link below is an
awesome TED Talk that is a teacher explaining her teaching.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3fMC-z7K0r4