Some might say that people's behaviors are influenced strictly by their genetics, or the "nature" theory of human behavior. Where, others believe that people think and behave in certain ways because they are taught to do so, known as the "nurture" theory of human behavior. This has been an ongoing argument for many years. So, which is it? Or is it a combination of both perhaps? And, so, how does this relate to teaching? Are some people born already having the pre-disposition to be teachers when they grow up?
I guess, it’s entirely possible to be born with the “teacher genes”, I don’t think that it’s very plausible for someone who wants to become a teacher be born just kind of knowing this information. It’s more probable in my opinion that you actually evolve into wanting to be a teacher from your own personal life's experiences. It can evolve from your family upbringing, your particular culture, educational background, working experiences, the passion you have for something you love or believe in, and even simply from the “school of life”. I guess it depends on when you get the epiphany that you want to become teacher.
If I had to defend the theory of “nature”, I could say that since working in an Elementary school has made me really observant…and so I’ve noticed there are some kids for whom it is obvious they are natural born teachers. They love to help the other kids, or they seem to enjoy the rewarding feeling they get from being helpers in the classroom and showing their friends how to do things.
And yet, how do we know what other factors are involved here? Maybe they are simply emulating their own moms or dads or someone else in their life that has inspired them at some point. Like…a teacher! :0 That’s when I begin to realize what an influence teachers can have on kids, and the possible directions they can take from their example.
How about the notion that a teacher can perhaps create other teachers by being a great and memorable one? I think we can all remember our favorite teachers, and what a difference they have made in our lives. This is something I am going to try to always keep in mind when I become an Elementary school teacher...
I agree that people aren't necessarily born with a "teacher" gene. I do think people's lives, work, and educational experiences have a lot to do with why they become a teacher. However, I will say that having particular passions in life do help when deciding to be a teacher. I would say that many good teachers exemplify hard work, dedication, and compassion. Perhaps people are born with these characteristics. I tend to think that people do have a certain degree of these characteristics...but they can always be magnified by sheer passion for something such as teaching!
ReplyDeleteAlso, good point about wanting to become a teacher because of having had a great teacher! Memorable teachers clearly do make an impact.
It's an interesting point that you raise. Perhaps some folks are just born with that nurturing instinct that goes into becoming a good teacher. Or, perhaps it is a learned skill. At this point, I'd say that nature has a lot to do with it. You may know a subject inside and out, but if you can't relate to people, and do not have an amiable helpful personality, you might be horrible teacher. Haven't we all experienced teachers like this?
ReplyDeleteI think it is great that you enjoy working with children who are special needs. It is a hard job that is not meant for everyone. And WoW! I can see your frustrations with other schools! Playing video games in class just to keep the kids happy is crazy to me!! I am glad you are seeing these different and unfortunate situations,I think it can be used as even more motivation to be a better teacher than them!! My kids are currently in private school, which was not my plan but the more I hear about APS the more I worry to move them into a public school!
ReplyDeleteSounds like Freud. Well if it is in our genes maybe Jung was right in that we have Racial memory. For how is it the three different civilizations came to build pyramids? Mayans/ Teotihuacanos, Egyptians and Cambodians.
ReplyDeleteAre some born teachers. I sure hope that we are born teacher cause I was born a nice person but seem to lack in creating an undiffuse lesson plan. Sometimes I think I have a good idea but it turns out to be bad in my lesson plans.