Deck 14: School and Society: Teaching and Teacher Leadership in the 21st Century

Question 1

As you reflect on your new understanding of the social foundations of education, revisit the link between education and democracy. What role do you think democracy plays in schooling? Explain how your thoughts have evolved during your study and briefly evaluate the current state of American schools in this context.

Answer 1

As I reflect on my new understanding of the social foundations of education, I see the crucial link between education and democracy. Democracy plays a significant role in schooling as it promotes the values of equality, freedom, and participation. In a democratic society, education is essential for creating informed and engaged citizens who can actively participate in the democratic process, make informed decisions, and contribute to the betterment of society.

During my study, my thoughts on the role of democracy in schooling have evolved. I now see that education is not just about acquiring knowledge and skills, but also about developing critical thinking, empathy, and a sense of civic responsibility. Schools should provide students with the opportunity to learn about democratic principles and practices, engage in civil discourse, and understand the importance of diversity and inclusion.

When evaluating the current state of American schools in this context, I see both strengths and weaknesses. On the positive side, there are efforts to promote civic education, teach about social justice issues, and encourage student participation in school governance. However, there are also challenges such as unequal access to quality education, lack of diversity in curriculum, and instances of intolerance and discrimination within schools. It is clear that there is still work to be done to ensure that American schools fulfill their role in promoting democracy and preparing students to be active and responsible citizens.

Question 2

Is a course in social foundations of education relevant in the current climate of standardized testing and professional standards? Why or why not? What are the three major things that you will take away from your study?

Answer 2

Yes, a course in social foundations of education is highly relevant in the current climate of standardized testing and professional standards. This is because social foundations of education explores the historical, philosophical, and sociological aspects of education, which are crucial in understanding the context and impact of standardized testing and professional standards.

Firstly, studying social foundations of education will provide a comprehensive understanding of the historical development of education and the role that standardized testing and professional standards have played in shaping the current education system. This historical perspective is important in critically evaluating the effectiveness and impact of these practices.

Secondly, the course will also delve into the philosophical underpinnings of education, including the purposes and goals of education, which are often overshadowed by the focus on standardized testing and professional standards. Understanding these philosophical foundations will help educators to critically analyze and challenge the current emphasis on testing and standards.

Lastly, studying social foundations of education will also provide insights into the sociological factors that influence education, such as social inequality, cultural diversity, and societal values. This understanding is crucial in addressing the limitations and biases of standardized testing and professional standards, and in advocating for more equitable and inclusive educational practices.

In conclusion, a course in social foundations of education is highly relevant in the current climate of standardized testing and professional standards as it provides a critical and comprehensive understanding of the historical, philosophical, and sociological aspects of education. From this study, I will take away a deeper understanding of the historical development of education, a critical perspective on the philosophical underpinnings of education, and insights into the sociological factors that influence educational practices.

Question 3

What motivates you to teach? Reflect on your personal, political, and professional motivations. Describe how you see yourself as a teacher.

Answer 3

What motivates me to teach is the desire to make a positive impact on the lives of my students. Personally, I have always found fulfillment in helping others and seeing them grow and succeed. I believe that education is a powerful tool for empowerment and I am motivated by the opportunity to inspire and guide the next generation.

Politically, I am motivated by the belief that education is a fundamental right for all individuals. I see teaching as a way to contribute to creating a more equitable society by providing all students with the knowledge and skills they need to thrive. I am driven by the idea of being an advocate for educational equality and social justice through my role as a teacher.

Professionally, I am motivated by the opportunity to constantly learn and grow as an educator. Teaching provides me with the chance to engage with diverse perspectives, develop innovative teaching methods, and collaborate with colleagues to enhance my own skills. I am driven by the challenge of continually improving as a teacher and staying current with best practices in education.

As a teacher, I see myself as a facilitator of learning, creating a supportive and inclusive classroom environment where students feel empowered to explore and discover their own potential. I strive to be a mentor and guide for my students, providing them with the tools and resources they need to succeed academically and personally. I also see myself as a lifelong learner, always seeking new ways to enhance my teaching and connect with my students on a deeper level. Overall, my goal is to inspire a love for learning and empower my students to become critical thinkers and engaged citizens.

Question 4

Develop your own initial theory of impact. What do you want to accomplish as a teacher? What outcomes will you strive for? How will you avoid those outcomes that you don't desire? What impact do you seek to have on your students' thinking, valuing, understanding, skills, and life chances?

Question 5

In the final chapter the authors state: "From the early national period to the common school era; from the progressive era through the cold war to the post-cold war period of contemporary school reform; from agrarianism to industrialism and urbanization; from urbanization to suburbanization and the postindustrial computer age; form classical liberalism to neoliberalism-the story of public schools in the United States has been marked by a tension between the ideals of democratic equality versus the practices of unequal schooling…" Explain the terms used by the authors; the relationships among the time periods; and how the tension the author speaks about manifests itself during each of these times.

Question 6

Reflect on the Primary Source Reading, "Teachers, Testing, & Civil Disobedience." Did the suspended teacher have a good theory of impact? Do you think that the suspended teacher's acts were acts of civil disobedience or insubordination? Can you respect the system even if you don't believe in it, as one commentator wrote? Do you think the suspended teacher's actions send a positive or negative message to his students? What role could effective teacher leadership play in the problems discussed in the reading? Which comments did you find the most thought-provoking? Why?

Question 7

A theory of impact is an explanation

A) regarding the effect of standardized testing in certain schools.
B) of how a teacher's practices will lead to their goals.
C) of how a lack of cultural understanding will lead to poor learning results.
D) of a teacher's motivation to enter the teaching profession.

Question 8

Study in the social foundations of education can

A) eliminate racism and gender bias.
B) put teachers in a better position to improve student learning by helping students understand context.
C) have a powerful effect on ending economic discrimination.
D) All these answers are correct.

Question 9

The reason to examine the question of "Why teach?" is to think about

A) the realities of impact.
B) what you can actually accomplish.
C) how what you accomplish is determined by what you want to accomplish.
D) All these answers are correct.