Friday, May 22, 2009
Ideology and Politics: Entry #5
Okay, the article, “Teachers' Cost of Living Matters” makes me feel better about my salary. Compared to other places such as New York, San Francisco, and Hawaii, my salary at first glance, looks pathetic. But when determining the cost of living factor, it looks pretty reasonable (for a teacher’s salary). I couldn’t imagine living in areas where the cost of living is 80% national average…yuck! I mean, I know San Francisco is beautiful, but I honestly couldn’t afford the living expenses full time; a vacation-yes, a home-no! In addition to cost of living, teachers need to take into account the benefits they are receiving in addition to their paycheck. My school's county pays for our health insurance which includes dental (we just have to pay so much a month for our spouse and dependents, and vision). When you take that into account, our salaries go up several thousands of dollars (depending on the quantity of insurance use). I have to tell myself this often because when I think about one of my girlfriends who racks in close to a thousand dollars a week from doing hair, I can get envious. But then I remind myself, I can’t do hair!
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Threat of Cultural Pluralism: Entry #4
1. Think about your own experiences in schools. In what ways were the curriculum, policies and structure of your school used as a means of social control?
· The English and History curriculums were used as a means of social control by teaching about other cultures, ethnicities, and religions. These practices gave minorities in the classroom a sense of belonging and expertise to those particular subject matters relating to their backgrounds.
2. Record your initial, personal, reflective thoughts regarding the differences between the two views and situations.
· I had to re-read and really think about the sections explaining the differences between two conceptions of multiculturalism. But after looking beyond the similarities of advocating pluralism, expressing admiration for diversity, and having a broad sympathy for the values to be found in all cultures, their philosophical implications are quite different; Melville’s view is broad, while Gates perception stresses loyalty to one’s local culture.
· After reading the different websites over multiculturalism, I have to agree that a benefit is served when all cultures are taught throughout units instead of having separate months to learn about different cultures. Embedding cultural into normal lessons gives a sense of pure multicultural education.
· The English and History curriculums were used as a means of social control by teaching about other cultures, ethnicities, and religions. These practices gave minorities in the classroom a sense of belonging and expertise to those particular subject matters relating to their backgrounds.
2. Record your initial, personal, reflective thoughts regarding the differences between the two views and situations.
· I had to re-read and really think about the sections explaining the differences between two conceptions of multiculturalism. But after looking beyond the similarities of advocating pluralism, expressing admiration for diversity, and having a broad sympathy for the values to be found in all cultures, their philosophical implications are quite different; Melville’s view is broad, while Gates perception stresses loyalty to one’s local culture.
· After reading the different websites over multiculturalism, I have to agree that a benefit is served when all cultures are taught throughout units instead of having separate months to learn about different cultures. Embedding cultural into normal lessons gives a sense of pure multicultural education.
Sunday, May 17, 2009
Nationalism and Multiculturalism: Entry #3
1. Reflect on the information presented as well as your own experiences with diversity in the classroom.
· Based on reading the recommended links, other internet resources, and evaluating my own personal experiences, multiculturalism is a very controversial topic. I agree with the acquisition that multiculturalism has acquired the meaning “multi-faith” or “multi-religious” because many ethnicities are assumed to be associated with a particular type of religion just based on the way they look. Shamefully, I know many times myself, if I see a person with a particular skin color, certain features and clothing attire, then I automatically assume they practice a particular religion.
· The supposed goal of multiculturalism is to celebrate diversity of people and create unity. But others feel it is the exact opposite because by making people realize that they are different, it separates people into groups easily identified and stereotyped, whether stereotypes are positive or negative. Furthermore, by segregating people like that, it would be counter-intuitive for this to create a sense of equality. Different, yet equal, (or separate but equal) is a concept not intrinsically grasped by human beings in the same way that labeling things as the same are. Rather than proposing that people should be separated into groups, many think a better approach to the spirit of diversity or multiculturalism would be to keep people together and celebrate individual diversity. They want to recognize that everyone is equal just for existing as a human being. Forcing people to recognize their differences can only lead to suffering.
2. Record your initial, personal, reflective thoughts regarding the differences between the two views and situations.
· The disturbing internet novel called, The Brigade, by H.A. Covington not only seems like a believable piece of fiction and a how-to guide for negative behaviors, but it also tries to scare the white nationalism. Unfortunately there are some readers who will not view the book as a racial piece of propaganda, but instead agree with the comments for it is how they perceive the world as well.
· I see why people view multiculturalism in a negative limelight because of all the stereotypes that follow the recognition of differences. Many ethnicities are assumed to behave a certain way because of their ancestors. These behaviors are also carried over to assumed religious practices based on their appearance.
Outside Source(s):
S, R. Multiculturalism is Wrong, Even if You Aren't a White Male. Jokers to the Right.com.
· Based on reading the recommended links, other internet resources, and evaluating my own personal experiences, multiculturalism is a very controversial topic. I agree with the acquisition that multiculturalism has acquired the meaning “multi-faith” or “multi-religious” because many ethnicities are assumed to be associated with a particular type of religion just based on the way they look. Shamefully, I know many times myself, if I see a person with a particular skin color, certain features and clothing attire, then I automatically assume they practice a particular religion.
· The supposed goal of multiculturalism is to celebrate diversity of people and create unity. But others feel it is the exact opposite because by making people realize that they are different, it separates people into groups easily identified and stereotyped, whether stereotypes are positive or negative. Furthermore, by segregating people like that, it would be counter-intuitive for this to create a sense of equality. Different, yet equal, (or separate but equal) is a concept not intrinsically grasped by human beings in the same way that labeling things as the same are. Rather than proposing that people should be separated into groups, many think a better approach to the spirit of diversity or multiculturalism would be to keep people together and celebrate individual diversity. They want to recognize that everyone is equal just for existing as a human being. Forcing people to recognize their differences can only lead to suffering.
2. Record your initial, personal, reflective thoughts regarding the differences between the two views and situations.
· The disturbing internet novel called, The Brigade, by H.A. Covington not only seems like a believable piece of fiction and a how-to guide for negative behaviors, but it also tries to scare the white nationalism. Unfortunately there are some readers who will not view the book as a racial piece of propaganda, but instead agree with the comments for it is how they perceive the world as well.
· I see why people view multiculturalism in a negative limelight because of all the stereotypes that follow the recognition of differences. Many ethnicities are assumed to behave a certain way because of their ancestors. These behaviors are also carried over to assumed religious practices based on their appearance.
Outside Source(s):
S, R. Multiculturalism is Wrong, Even if You Aren't a White Male. Jokers to the Right.com.
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
Religion and Schools: Entry #2
1. Compare and contrast the views presented.
· After reading the links Religion in Schools: The Debate Heats Up 2009 and Library of Congress Artifact, 3 main topics regarding religion and education were addressed: Moment of Silence, Evolution Theory, and Saluting to the American Flag
· The Moment of Silence is meant for prayer or personal reflection at the start of each school day. However, some viewpoints say the law is an unconstitutional breach of the separation of church and state. Proponents of the law argue it is a student's personal choice whether to pray or reflect more generally; therefore, defenders say that the law does not force religion on public school children. But critics like the American Civil Liberties Union see the law as a veil for incorporating religion into public education.
· Students in science classes feel intimidated by their teachers when they question the Evolution theory and would like the curriculum to change to evaluating strengths and weaknesses of the theory which includes studying the creationism. However the science teachers feel that there is no need to study weaknesses of the Evolution theory since there are no verifiable weaknesses to Darwin's theory of evolution.
· In 1935, Jehovah’s witnesses felt that by saluting the American Flag, they are violating the commandment of idolatry. Therefore the religious group did not participate in the ceremony and were expelled for insubordination. Some rulings agreed with this type of consequence for citizens are compelled to respect for the flag as a key symbol of national unity. However, other courts that dealt with similar situations held that the right of free speech guaranteed in the First Amendment to the Constitution denies the government the authority to compel the saluting of the American flag or the recitation of the pledge of allegiance.
2. Record your initial, personal, reflective thoughts regarding the differences between the two views and situations
· I see how some people would fear that having a Moment of Silence would be a sneaky way to incorporate religious practices into schools, but since there are no provisions on what thoughts are to be practiced, I think there is nothing wrong with having a little quiet time for everyone before we start the day.According to the Wallace v Jaffree case in 1985: courts ruled that a period of silence for meditation or voluntary prayer is unconstitutional. You can however have a moment of silence with no stipulations.
· Taking into account that scientists believe that there is a lack of verifiable evidence regarding weaknesses of Darwin’s theory, I understand why they wouldn’t want to change the curriculum to studying strengths and weaknesses of the subject matter.
· Religion is a touchy subject, so if certain believers feel that they are committing a violation to their religion by carrying out a school/patriotic practice, such believers should be excused from the exercise since the First Amendment of Freedom of Speech protects those rights.
· After reading the links Religion in Schools: The Debate Heats Up 2009 and Library of Congress Artifact, 3 main topics regarding religion and education were addressed: Moment of Silence, Evolution Theory, and Saluting to the American Flag
· The Moment of Silence is meant for prayer or personal reflection at the start of each school day. However, some viewpoints say the law is an unconstitutional breach of the separation of church and state. Proponents of the law argue it is a student's personal choice whether to pray or reflect more generally; therefore, defenders say that the law does not force religion on public school children. But critics like the American Civil Liberties Union see the law as a veil for incorporating religion into public education.
· Students in science classes feel intimidated by their teachers when they question the Evolution theory and would like the curriculum to change to evaluating strengths and weaknesses of the theory which includes studying the creationism. However the science teachers feel that there is no need to study weaknesses of the Evolution theory since there are no verifiable weaknesses to Darwin's theory of evolution.
· In 1935, Jehovah’s witnesses felt that by saluting the American Flag, they are violating the commandment of idolatry. Therefore the religious group did not participate in the ceremony and were expelled for insubordination. Some rulings agreed with this type of consequence for citizens are compelled to respect for the flag as a key symbol of national unity. However, other courts that dealt with similar situations held that the right of free speech guaranteed in the First Amendment to the Constitution denies the government the authority to compel the saluting of the American flag or the recitation of the pledge of allegiance.
2. Record your initial, personal, reflective thoughts regarding the differences between the two views and situations
· I see how some people would fear that having a Moment of Silence would be a sneaky way to incorporate religious practices into schools, but since there are no provisions on what thoughts are to be practiced, I think there is nothing wrong with having a little quiet time for everyone before we start the day.According to the Wallace v Jaffree case in 1985: courts ruled that a period of silence for meditation or voluntary prayer is unconstitutional. You can however have a moment of silence with no stipulations.
· Taking into account that scientists believe that there is a lack of verifiable evidence regarding weaknesses of Darwin’s theory, I understand why they wouldn’t want to change the curriculum to studying strengths and weaknesses of the subject matter.
· Religion is a touchy subject, so if certain believers feel that they are committing a violation to their religion by carrying out a school/patriotic practice, such believers should be excused from the exercise since the First Amendment of Freedom of Speech protects those rights.
Historical Perspectives: Entry #1
1. What are your personal thoughts regarding the innovators and the "makers?"
· I view the “Innovators” as models of society who inspired others. They are the individuals who are the first at doing something and the ones who open up opportunities for others.
· “Makers” are the individuals who set the ground work for results to occur. They are the people with visions and plans that work to see that their goals are achieved.
2. Select one innovator and one "maker" that you feel truly influenced public education as we know it today.
· Linda Brown Thompson is seen as an innovator for she helped lead to the abolishment of the separate but equal doctrine in the 1950’s. This young lady helped the merge of different ethnicities learn under the same roof with the same opportunities as the majority population of the whites.
· Horace Mann is considered a “maker” due to his reputation as the father of American public school education. Mann was named the first Secretary of the State Board of Education in Massachusetts and saw the need for public support and public awareness of the educational problems of poor teaching, substandard materials, inferior school committees and pupil absences. Mann had successful campaign which led to the improvement of schools throughout the state. Mann also founded the first school for training teachers. Mann stressed the importance of improving education by establishing free library systems. Mann also fought for teachers to receive higher salaries. (All information on Horace Mann was taken from www.cals.ncsu.edu.)
3. Record your initial, personal, reflective thoughts regarding the differences between the innovators and "makers."
· By studying the two terms and evaluating individuals from both categories, I see that innovators and makers have similar characteristics and are not just two opposite ends of a pole.
· Both an innovator and maker of education must be passionate, courageous, well-informed, flexible, and not afraid to make a difference in the lives of others.
4. Briefly discuss why you selected the innovator and "maker" and how you feel they have influenced education today.
· I chose Linda Thompson because she was a very courageous soul fighting the battle of segregation in such a drastic time period.
· Horace Mann was chosen because he worked for educators in finding the first school to train teachers and fought for higher teacher salaries. I feel like he understands the importance of providing good conditions and benefits for educators.
· I view the “Innovators” as models of society who inspired others. They are the individuals who are the first at doing something and the ones who open up opportunities for others.
· “Makers” are the individuals who set the ground work for results to occur. They are the people with visions and plans that work to see that their goals are achieved.
2. Select one innovator and one "maker" that you feel truly influenced public education as we know it today.
· Linda Brown Thompson is seen as an innovator for she helped lead to the abolishment of the separate but equal doctrine in the 1950’s. This young lady helped the merge of different ethnicities learn under the same roof with the same opportunities as the majority population of the whites.
· Horace Mann is considered a “maker” due to his reputation as the father of American public school education. Mann was named the first Secretary of the State Board of Education in Massachusetts and saw the need for public support and public awareness of the educational problems of poor teaching, substandard materials, inferior school committees and pupil absences. Mann had successful campaign which led to the improvement of schools throughout the state. Mann also founded the first school for training teachers. Mann stressed the importance of improving education by establishing free library systems. Mann also fought for teachers to receive higher salaries. (All information on Horace Mann was taken from www.cals.ncsu.edu.)
3. Record your initial, personal, reflective thoughts regarding the differences between the innovators and "makers."
· By studying the two terms and evaluating individuals from both categories, I see that innovators and makers have similar characteristics and are not just two opposite ends of a pole.
· Both an innovator and maker of education must be passionate, courageous, well-informed, flexible, and not afraid to make a difference in the lives of others.
4. Briefly discuss why you selected the innovator and "maker" and how you feel they have influenced education today.
· I chose Linda Thompson because she was a very courageous soul fighting the battle of segregation in such a drastic time period.
· Horace Mann was chosen because he worked for educators in finding the first school to train teachers and fought for higher teacher salaries. I feel like he understands the importance of providing good conditions and benefits for educators.
Monday, May 11, 2009
Hi Classmates!
I'm just now finishing my 2nd year of teaching Language Arts and I'm loving it! I anticipate staying in the classroom for many years because 7th graders rock! Yes, they can have multiple personalities at times, but they are a highly entertaining group of individuals!
I just finished my M.Ed in Administration & Supervision K-12 Public Schools at MTSU and I'm starting the Ed.S in Curriculum & Instruction.
I spend my leisure time with my husband who is studying to be a Physical Therapist. His hobby consists of running and training for marathons-not my thing, but I go to the races for support.
I'm just now finishing my 2nd year of teaching Language Arts and I'm loving it! I anticipate staying in the classroom for many years because 7th graders rock! Yes, they can have multiple personalities at times, but they are a highly entertaining group of individuals!
I just finished my M.Ed in Administration & Supervision K-12 Public Schools at MTSU and I'm starting the Ed.S in Curriculum & Instruction.
I spend my leisure time with my husband who is studying to be a Physical Therapist. His hobby consists of running and training for marathons-not my thing, but I go to the races for support.
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