Standing On Our Shoulders

 

Would you expect resistance from students as you ask them to make more of a contribution to the benefit of the class? I was expecting my answer to be yes, there will be a lot of resistance from students. Simply because, through observation, it is hard to get students to complete assignments and get them to do something that does not benefit them alone. However, after reading through the chapter I realized there wouldn't be a lot of resistance, at least once the students are motivated and understand the purpose of what they're doing, there would be a lot less resistance. I think a teacher's role shifts to more of a guide and motivator with this style of education. Parents may not understand this idea and may have comments such as "well why do I send them to school if they're doing everything on their own?" or "How can they learn if you (the teacher) won't give them material to study?". My explanation to these parents would be about how it will benefit them more in the long run not only as students but as citizens who contribute to their communities and make it a better world around them. Parents who do understand this idea will, in my opinion, enjoy the shift and maybe see a difference in their student's behavior and motivation to go to school. When students are able to collaborate and learn more from their peers they will learn more. 

As an educator, I would promote more independence in students' learning. One goal of mine would be to get the students to want to learn and are happy to gain new information. I would also promote collaboration in the classroom. For example, sharing notes, creating projects, and doing big group projects as a class (planting a garden or painting a mural). These are things students are not graded on but benefit from by sharing their thoughts and putting effort into something that is not only for themselves. I would communicate with parents and help them understand the goals for the classroom and how we are creating better citizens in the classroom. Providing roles for students to contribute to the classroom is another method of teaching responsibility to students.