Education is Politics by Ira Shor
Quotes
"In forming the students' conception of self and the world, teachers can present knowledge in several ways, as a celebration of the existing society, as a falsely neutral avoidance or problem, coated in the system, or as a critical inquiry into power and knowledge as they relate to student experience" (Shor 14).
In other words, this quote means that teachers are meant to empower students' minds and allow them to be open to the idea of change. Part of their job is to teach their students not to avoid the issue but to be open to bettering the situation instead of just accepting it for what it is. Also, for students to use their knowledge to their full advantage when it comes to real world issues. That way they will be able to acknowledge the idea of social change, critical thinking, and empowerment of education.
"School funding is another political dimension of education, because more money has always been invested in the education of upper-class children and elite collegians than has been spent on students from lower-income homes and in community colleges" (Shor 15).
I agree with this quote that upper-class children and elite collegians are put at an advantage educationally due to their wealthiness compared to the lower class. Their resources aren't as limited compared to the lower class and they are supplied with more funds. This results in a better education for the upper-class. This frustrates me because I feel as though regardless of the class, students everywhere should have an equal schooling experience.
"The participatory classroom is a "free speech" classroom in the best sense, because it invites all expressions from all the students, An empowering class thrives on a lively exchange of thoughts and feelings (Shor 22).
I chose this quote because I like the idea of a "free speech" classroom and how students are allowed to express their thoughts and opinions openly. It almost acts as a safe space for students which I feel like is what we need more of in school settings. I remember when I was in middle school and high school, I didn't feel like I could openly express my ideas. For example, say my class was having a discussion and I had a different opinion, this one specific teacher would tell me I was wrong instead of accepting my opinion or asking me questions like, why do you feel that way? Tell me more.
"In a moving account, she reports on efforts to develop the students' command of two idioms their "home" language and the "cash" language" (Shor 53).
I think this quote relates to Rodriguez because he had no choice but to learn the "public" language, English. He felt like he was losing his connections with his home language and culture. This ended up affecting his family as well since they all eventually adapted to the English language, leaving their first language out. I think this can speak for many people who were forced to learn the English language in order to be socially accepted in America.
"In forming the students' conception of self and the world, teachers can present knowledge in several ways, as a celebration of the existing society, as a falsely neutral avoidance or problem, coated in the system, or as a critical inquiry into power and knowledge as they relate to student experience" (Shor 14).
In other words, this quote means that teachers are meant to empower students' minds and allow them to be open to the idea of change. Part of their job is to teach their students not to avoid the issue but to be open to bettering the situation instead of just accepting it for what it is. Also, for students to use their knowledge to their full advantage when it comes to real world issues. That way they will be able to acknowledge the idea of social change, critical thinking, and empowerment of education.
"School funding is another political dimension of education, because more money has always been invested in the education of upper-class children and elite collegians than has been spent on students from lower-income homes and in community colleges" (Shor 15).
I agree with this quote that upper-class children and elite collegians are put at an advantage educationally due to their wealthiness compared to the lower class. Their resources aren't as limited compared to the lower class and they are supplied with more funds. This results in a better education for the upper-class. This frustrates me because I feel as though regardless of the class, students everywhere should have an equal schooling experience.
"The participatory classroom is a "free speech" classroom in the best sense, because it invites all expressions from all the students, An empowering class thrives on a lively exchange of thoughts and feelings (Shor 22).
I chose this quote because I like the idea of a "free speech" classroom and how students are allowed to express their thoughts and opinions openly. It almost acts as a safe space for students which I feel like is what we need more of in school settings. I remember when I was in middle school and high school, I didn't feel like I could openly express my ideas. For example, say my class was having a discussion and I had a different opinion, this one specific teacher would tell me I was wrong instead of accepting my opinion or asking me questions like, why do you feel that way? Tell me more.
"In a moving account, she reports on efforts to develop the students' command of two idioms their "home" language and the "cash" language" (Shor 53).
I think this quote relates to Rodriguez because he had no choice but to learn the "public" language, English. He felt like he was losing his connections with his home language and culture. This ended up affecting his family as well since they all eventually adapted to the English language, leaving their first language out. I think this can speak for many people who were forced to learn the English language in order to be socially accepted in America.
Point to share in class: What are your thoughts on social change? Do you agree with Shor's ideas of empowering education?
I agree with what you said I also like classrooms where you are free to express your thought and opinions. I hate when teachers ask what you think about something then tell you your wrong, its like why even ask me then?
ReplyDeleteI love everything about this blog! Everything is so accurate and I agree with everything that you said. The pictures go so nicely and I just love how everything flows.
ReplyDeleteYou made some great points with these quotes, there should always be room for students feelings and opinions to be shared.
ReplyDeleteI agree with Tiffany! I also enjoy being in classrooms where you are free to express your thoughts and opinions! You made some great points !
ReplyDelete