Purpose of Education
The purpose of education in to inspire a student to become a life-long learner and to be a productive citizen in our society. One of the best ways to develop a love for learning and a productive citizen is with good literature. Through good literature a student can gain an understanding of the emotional needs of others, take into account other people's experiences, and increase their emotional intelligence. Good literature is people centered, not problem centered. It reveals how to be a human being and the possibilities of life; it offers hope. A well-read student is empowered by experiences beyond what their immediate world can provide; thereby providing them with an opportunity to increase their emotional and intellectual intelligence; this is the purpose of an education.
Role of the Teacher and Student
I believe the role of a teacher is to be a coach/mentor, role model, enthusiast, and a creative entrepreneur of thoughts and ideas. One of the most important qualities a teacher teaches in the classroom is responsibility. As instruction moves from modeling and guided practice to collaborative learning and finally to independent learning, a student can begin to take responsibility for their own learning goals. Shifting the accountability for a student's learning on to their shoulders gives them agency and freedom to grow and develop; to become a leader. A teacher's influence is the the power to change a student's life; to inspire those they teach to risk and seek out opportunities in life that they might otherwise deny themselves.
Role of the Teacher in the Community
Teachers serve as not only educators, but also as role models that mentors those they teach. Students will look to their teachers when determining how to act as adults. Values such as respect for elders, sharing, and cooperation amoung peers, respect for differences needs to be modeled by a teacher. The world's diversity should be embraced and celebrated in the classroom through literature, invited guests, field trips and out reach activities. This will allow the students to go beyond their immediate experiences and make connections to other peoples lives and experiences. I believe that students who take an active role in making a positive difference in someone's life will become a more compassionate and mature adult. This will help them become a leader and a productive citizen in our community.
