Inquiry Blog #2

This week's inquiry discussion is one I feel very passionate about. The Empowered Educators text is one I am very inspired by because I know how empowered educators can change students' lives. In my groups' discussion today we talked about the power "struggle" between students and teachers and why it shouldn't really be a "struggle". My group and I had a great conversation about why we agreed that the power in the classroom should really be split between the teacher and the students. Too often, students hate their class because they have a teacher that always tries to commandeer the power in the classroom. Especially, in our generation of teachers we put a large emphasis on sharing power with the students. We see the value in our student's input, and know they will get more out of the class by actively participating. When students know that their opinion and that their ideas matter, so much is opened in the world of the classroom. Another topic we discussed is how to be an empowered teacher. I feel that knowing how to be empowered and take care of yourself is crucial when you work in the education field. We spoke about the steps to empowerment talked about in the book 1. Self-Reflect. 2. Make a declaration of intent. 3. Create a plan of action. 4. Implement. While these steps are helpful, we also think that it is important to create your own ways to empower yourself. This can be through self-care nights or through making friendships with your fellow teachers and lifting each other up. Being an empowered teacher, will make your students feel empowered. This creates the optimal environment you would want for your students and for yourself.

This inquiry group was very beneficial in terms of discussing teaching as a profession. The hardships, and joys of it. The Empowered Teacher text facilitated this conversation between us that most pre-professional teachers don't have. Another great conversation with my group members!