EDF 1005- Reflection 10

“The teacher is the gatekeeper,” a term created by Philip Jackson. What makes this statement true? Well, for as long as I can remember, in my classes the teacher is always the one who is in charge. The teacher is the one who chooses a student when all those hands go up. The teacher decides whether their answer was wrong or right. The teacher is also the one with the power to limit the length of that response or ask for an extended, detailed version. The teacher is who decides what direction the class discussion will go. In a classroom, the teacher usually decides what is fair as long as they stay within their boundaries, of course. Communication between teacher and student happens almost throughout the entire class time. Since it is the teacher who is lecturing the classroom it is only natural that the teacher is who initiates communication and manage the topic and what is being said. It is expected for the teacher to always be the first to open their mouth in that class room and because of these students are automatically ready to listen quietly and be dependent on the teacher. Although they are quiet their brains should be causing up a storm as they rely on their teachers for knowledge and truth. They should be thinking quickly and trying to memorize the information that is being given to them. A common tactic for teachers to check their students understanding is by asking questions. Time to ask students questions is always prepared but students have barely, if any time to ask any of their own questions. It is easy to see why many students are afraid to admit they simply don’t get something. They may be embarrassed to ask for help. I believe teachers should use their authority in the classroom to make the learning experience more positive for students. If they are more comfortable asking their own questions then maybe they will have an easier time understanding. After all, how can a child be able to get something that is confusing for them when they don’t have the time or courage to ask? I remember in high school seeing students raise their hands to ask questions about something the teacher just mentioned in the lecture and many of the times they respond, “Not now, put your hand down.” Seeing this happened would discourage me, myself to ever dare put my own hand up. Many students sit in their seats pretending to understand something they don’t. If districts didn’t tell their staff how they should teach then maybe those who allow their students to speak will do a better job at giving them the education they want and allowing them to explore their question and curiosities. What is the point of these higher-authority-given rubrics? Teachers went to school and studied for the job they have already, we shouldn’t be given a pre-written, recycled (probably out-dated) lesson plan. With this new trend of standardized testing in public schools there is much less time for lectures and real learning. Instead of the exchange of creative ideas and other important topics schools are more interested in focusing on math and reading only. I am not saying those topics aren’t important but there is so much more for the students to learn as well that will help the student gain a larger variety knowledge and education.