I have always had this internal battle when it comes to technology. However, I think the reason for this has a lot to do with the structure of the course- aka, technology is not needed. Having said that, I also do not believe it is my decision on whether students use technology. Moreover, at this level of education, I think much of the decision making falls on the students and their desire to learn and engage with the material. However, this does not mean that my internal battle does not rage on and I think you provide good dialogue into the issue of technology in the classroom. Thanks for your insight!

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I loved the part where you note that, “it deserves more than just a bullet point on the course syllabus and would be more effective as a discussion that gets revisited regularly throughout the semester.” I have never really thought about the continued conversation when it comes to technology and I think you bring up a great point when it comes to student self-awareness. I really appreciate you pointing this out and I definitely plan on implementing this approach next semester!

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Similar to you, I loved that there was finally an article that I felt “spoke to me.” As a public speaking TA, I am oftentimes listening and grading students in class as they give their speeches and although we record the speeches, these recordings are supposed to be more for reference. However, I have always felt like I was really bad at doing this. I am terrible at grading in class. Having said that, after reading the article, I realized that it really has less to do with me and more to do with the fact that brains do not work this. Keeping in line with your sentiments, its nice that I can be okay with going speech by speech after class and not have to stress about my lack of multitasking abilities.

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I think what made this blog post stand out to me is the fact that you were willing to listen to and acknowledge, as well as even apply, many concepts shared by Freire. However, in the same breath, you were also able to be critical and back that criticism with very valid points. By understanding what works for you personally, but also what the potential impact of implementing certain practices into your field might do/mean, you have already proven (at least to me) that you are very much on your way to being a successful teacher, as well as a successful implementer of critical pedagogy.

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Amos- I think you offer extremely valuable insights into the difficulties that arise when it comes to inclusive pedagogy. In thinking back to our recent topic on our authentic teaching self, I cannot help but think that striving for inclusive pedagogy should be part of that authenticity of teachers and future leaders. Similar to your views, I dont think these things can be temporary inclusions into teaching or superficial changes for short periods of time, but instead, ways in which we live!

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I agree Dr. Nelson- perhaps being general is the best answer at times.

Dana- honestly, at times, yes. However, I think I use the flaws and the slip-ups as a chance to explain to them that 1. I am human just like them, but more importantly, 2. As I mention in the course, while delivery is important, it is oftentimes the content that matters most. So yes, while I do feel pressure to be cognizant of how many times I say “um” and “soooooo….”, I also use my own mistakes as teaching tools, which I think helps.

Not only do I think your passion is inspiring, but I think the fact that you even have these questions shows how much you care- which is much more than some people can say. Having that drive, as well as that hope that you mentioned makes you a great candidate to lead future students. I think authenticity is so important when it comes to teaching and while you should consider your former teachers and professors as a starting point, I ultimately think that your own style will shine through in the end. As noted, even having these concerns and questions shows how important this profession is to you and I wish you the best of luck going forward!

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Antonio- I love your final point about applicability in the real world and its something that I always find myself struggling to accomplish. Oftentimes, what becomes difficult is that the letter grade is all that students focus on and they forget that what they learn should be carried with them. I think focusing on that aspect of teaching is super important and definitely worthy of focus. Thanks for pointing that out!

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