We as humans love labels eg. republican, democrat, etc. Parents and educators are no exception, schools now a days may be considered "green" "charter" or "private" and teachers may consider their curriculum to be "place-based" or "project-based." I believe when we as teachers "label" ourselves, we are opening some doors yet closing others. Labels are simple, in-the-box, sometimes dangerous and very easy for those with contrasting viewpoints to dismiss. The definition of a school is a constantly changing and evolving being, therefore educators must be open-minded, diverse and be able to use their knowledge and training similar to how and when a professional golfer selects the proper club.
I like to analogy of golf clubs and educators. However, with all the changes that are happening in education I sometimes feel like the clubs are constantly changing, and I have to keep relearning my game of education.
ReplyDeleteVery good point. Yes, I agree. It sometimes feels like that. Thanks for the comment.
ReplyDeleteI think in our experience with place-based literacy--we are having an experience. We, to use your analogy, are having the experience of using that club in the bag. But we are not, by any means defining ourselves and simply or solely place-based educators.
ReplyDeleteAgreed. Place-based is just one of our many, many strategies to inform and inspire.
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