This video is unsettling for me to some extent. I realize its an advertisement, and so it is utilizing some strategies for advertising to make you want to buy into it. But what I find unsettling is that there are many teachers (like the ones in the video) who only make time for the curriculum and forget to incorporate ‘teachable moments’ or even allow time for their students to share and discuss issues and feelings. I find it sad when the only learning occurring at school is specific curriculum objectives, and perhaps even sadder yet when a program has to substitute in the guidance of morals and opportunities for expression that isn’t naturally happening within the classroom setting.
What do you think? Would a program like this be a necessity in your classroom? Or do you feel that you are already incorporating such things in your everyday teaching?
March 24th, 2012 at 12:47 am
It is very interesting that some of the things that many of us (certain in the Faculty of Ed) value most as educators are the things we feel often can’t be taught. I have mixed thoughts on this video (I haven’t seen this before), but I assume if teachers really need help with this aspect of teaching, I imagine it’s good to have such training available. It’s just sad to think that these things do not come natural.
Thanks for this post.
March 24th, 2012 at 6:53 am
True true, it is good to have programs like this available for those teachers who struggle in this area… or perhaps for those who just need a refresher if these things fall to the way-side.
March 27th, 2012 at 1:28 am
I totally agree with you Heather….values like self-esteem, tolerance and kindness should be seamlessly interwoven into curriculum content. If a teacher is doing his/her job properly, there shouldn’t be a need to bring in a third party to do this. After all, these people wouldn’t have the same special relationship with the kids that the teacher would have and so wouldn’t be able to communicate as deeply with them as the teacher could. Teaching the hidden curriculum is, I believe, often more important than teaching the prescribed curriculum, as this is what is required for students to become kind, thoughtful citizens of society.