This meme is meant to make fun of the fact that as aspiring teachers we often think that we need to have all the answers since we are professionals. However, I know with myself, I also am prone to make human errors (like spacing out on the spelling of a word). This presents a dichotomy that I feel many teachers can relate to. It also is meant to remind us that we all make mistakes and not to put too much pressure on ourselves when we make little mistakes, which we are all bound to do at one point or another.
The art and craft of teaching
Agreed. Thinking the teacher has to be the smartest person in the room undercuts the notion of the classroom as a community of learners.
Your post made me laugh Renee! Also, I agree with the underlying message of your meme. I see teaching as guiding my students’ learning, rather than being their only source of knowledge. I think its best to provide scaffolding to assist students in their knowledge, and if one can do this effectively, I see them as a great teacher rather than a teacher who simply is knowledgeable about their subject matter.
Jose, interesting point about “great teacher” – what makes a person a great teacher – knowing about a subject? Or helping others learn about it?
I love your meme Renee! I don’t know if I’ll be able to remember how to spell Bolsheviks until I have to teach about them! I think it’s important to be mindful that as teachers it’s not our job to know everything. This is a helpful reminder especially as a history teacher because it’s almost impossible to know everything! I liked what Jose said as well about guiding your students. If you can be a guide on the side and help them to learn how do research and find answers to their questions on their own. Setting up your class in a way where you make it known that you don’t know everything, but are want to learn along with your students, not only about them but also about some things you don’t know, you’ll get a better reception from your students too.