Blog Post #4

 Blog Post #4 

Video/What to look for in a Classroom

Alfie Kohn

Reflection:

    Kohn does an outstanding job at providing ideal examples of what should be in a classroom, and what shouldn't. As a student who has been in many different classrooms throughout my life, I can say that I have seen good classrooms and bad ones. The worst classroom I've ever been in was my 7th grade classroom. Students were always talking out and complaining. The thing that bothered me most was the blank walls, the classroom was so plain and in the mind of a 7th grader it felt like I was in prison. I also particularly enjoyed classrooms that were set up to feel comfy with books and supplies everywhere. One thing that I don't have a problem with was listed as a possible reason to worry,  teachers being typically front and center was something I always liked. The teacher being in the front was very convenient for myself, especially when I had a question. Still, I can understand the appeal of an active teacher who roams around the classroom, interacting with students on a more personal level. In the video I was reminded of how important culturally responsive teaching is. I have had a few teachers who are culturally responsive and the environment is noticeably better. Teachers who can do this create an environment that acknowledges diversity and individuality, which makes students feel more appreciated and valued. 

Here are some classroom design ideas, I hope this can give someone some ideas!

https://chaylorandmads.com/classroom-decoration-ideas/

Blog Post #3

Blog Post #3

Amazing Grace

By: Jonathan Kozol

    After reading Amazing Grace , I was able to reflect on how blessed I am in life to be where I am now. In my opinion, Kozol did an outstanding job with shedding light on the horrors of South Bronx and the depressing lives of its inhabitants. While reading this piece I was quickly hooked, as I have never read about the appalling things that happen in the Bronx in such detail. Something that really stood out to me in this piece was something I was able to relate to, "Many cannot sleep. Asthma is the most common illness among children here. Many have to struggle to take in a good deep breath. Some mothers keep oxygen tanks, which children describe as "breathing machines," next to their children's beds"(pg.4). Growing up with asthma I can relate to the struggles of breathing, but I couldn't imagine what life would have been like if I didn't own an inhaler growing up. The stories Kozol talks about really bring to life the problems with South Bronx. I couldn't have been more blessed to have grown up the way I did and where I did, rather than a drug infested area. I will never understand why the world just allows this happen, action is clearly needed more than ever. More people in the world today should be grateful and appreciative that they don't have to live like the people in South Bronx live. 

-Here is a link to a first person video of someone walking around South Bronx.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tFJnjicQ2aA

Blog Post #2

The Silenced Dialogue/Overview Handout

By: Lisa Delpit

Quotes:

"There comes a moment in every class where we have to discuss "The Black Issue" and what's appropriate education for black children. I tell you, I'm tired of arguing with those white people, because they won't listen. Well, I don't know if they really don't listen or if they just don't believe you. It seems like if you can't quote Vygotsky or something, then you don't have any validity to speak about your own kids. Anyway, I'm not bothering with it anymore, now I'm just in it for a grade." - Pg. 21

- This quote from a black student in a predominately white setting stood out to me for a few reasons. His point on how white people aren't listening to his thoughts when talking about the education for black children is important to look at. The point he made at the end is also something to acknowledge. He's just in it for the grade. I feel as though teachers should be more encouraging for students to be themselves and to be passionate about a topic. 

"Black children expect an authority figure to act with authority." - Pg. 35

- I would have to say that I disagree with this statement by Delpit. I understand the Concept of Authority but I don't believe that race should play a part in it. Expecting students to react to classroom commands differently based on their race is a step in the wrong direction. Each household is different with its own set of rules. It just wouldn't make sense to command students differently like that. 

"I tell them that their language and cultural style is unique and wonderful but that there is a political power game that is also being played, and if they want to be in on that game there are certain games that they too must play." - pg. 40

- This quote to be very powerful with its meaning. I like how he tells the students about how their language and cultural style is unique, as it adds a sense of acceptance between the teacher and student. I also like the mentioning of the political power game. That political power game is part of how we can change this world. 

Here is a link to an video with some ideas on combating racism in schools.

- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o7soCyte1RE