Semester Recap

This semester we were introduced to some meaningful videos and readings that help with the understanding of effective teaching methods inside the classroom. We have learned what it looks, sounds and feels like and also discussed the importance of inclusivity no matter the background.

One of the most meaningful activities we did in class was the Card Game. The game was set up for each group to have their own standard rules and understanding of the game. Once a winner was declared in each group, they moved clockwise to the next and took their understanding of the game to another group who had a completely different set of rules. The point of the game was to give a clear understanding of what it is like for a student to go into a different setting that is unlike their own and learn the norms that are created. Frustration grew as one of the restrictions of the game was we could not talk to one another so communicating our confusion wasn't allowed. When asked how we felt about the game, most of us stated that because we couldn't talk and were so confused, we continued to just play along through the confusion and just conform to the rules of the person who was most dominant. It was an eye opener to understanding how children/students feel when they don't speak up, can't speak up or are afraid to speak up.

With this notion in mind, one of my favorite readings this semester was 'Aria' by Richard Rodriguez. This text was about a boy named Ricardo Rodriguez who was a Spanish speaking student and was strongly encouraged to speak English by his teachers. In his text, he goes on to say that although he was learning the language that helped ease him into society, he was being taken away from the language and culture he had grown up with. This level of conformity is a great example of what can happen when students come into an environment that is strong in their ways and beliefs. Ricardo was known to the nuns as the Spanish speaking child in class and wasn't admired for his diversity he brought. Going into the education field, I believe it to be prominent to accept those of different backgrounds and help them celebrate the best way they know how.

Relating to the idea of acceptance, one film that I also enjoyed watching was Precious Knowledge. This film highlights the importance of ethnic studies and what happens to students when it is taken away. This film documented a classes fight to keep their ethnic studies course for the upcoming classes to come. It shows that students do want to learn and need the right motivations to do so.