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In Seth Godin's new book Linchpin: Are You Indispensable? he encourages us to "Take [our] gift, whatever it is, and use it to change the world." This sounds like the words of a prophet. So let's listen, and ask ourselves, "What's our gift? What are we APOC students passionate about that we can use to fuel the creation of an organic online community?" Though it may seem obvious, if we follow our hearts, we will become linchpins; we will be indispensable.
In today's business world, we're finally beginning to praise those who are talented and creative (maybe not as much at first--take Apple and every time they release a new product). According to Seth Godin, we have been taught to follow our "lizard brains," or remain safe instead of stepping outside of our comfort zones. I believe our nation's educational system contributes to this resistance of wanting to fit in with the rest of society. Does today's educational system (and parents) praise students' talents and gifts? Or de we label children with unique attributes, such as hyperactive or compulsive behavior, as "children with chronic conditions"? In a Ted Talk a few years ago, Sir Ken Robinson argues that schools squander children's talents. He also observes that children are not intimidated to take chances. Last November a 10-year-old boy by the name of Will Philips refused to stand for the pledge of allegiance because he believed there isn't justice for all, especially for gays and lesbians. Children like Will take chances because they're not afraid of being wrong.
Some of us are the product of this educational training machine which promotes fitting in and compliancy. Our schools frown upon giving the wrong answer or making mistakes. But if we don't mistakes, how do we improve? If we're not prepared to be wrong, how do we come up with something original? How will children learn to trust their creativity? My answer: their teachers. Although I know that it's impossible to have each one of my students become indispensable individuals, the least I can do is just be a Spanish teacher. I can promise my students that I will maximize every opportunity to reach their greatest potentials. Ultimately, though, it's the student's choice (just as it is ours) to follow our hearts and to become invaluable human beings.
Very true...if we stay in our comfort zones, how can we truly experience what life has to offer? Some of the best inventions were created by mistake (ie, penicillin). As a tutor, I encourage my students to think outside the box and stand behind their ideas, even if those ideas may not align exactly with what their teacher is looking for. It's great that you take the same approach with your teaching philosophy, because it reaches so many other aspects of life...we need more teachers like you!
ReplyDeleteNosce te ipsum! (know thyself)
ReplyDeleteWise advice, but not always so easy...