EDUC 450: Reflection #8 – Pedagogical Sensitivity and Teachers

In my opinion, to act tactfully as a teacher is to adopt a necessary state of self-awareness that habitualizes appropriate responses to students and classroom situations based on empathy, equity, encouragement, and role modelling. It is in essence learning how to conduct oneself with students to create a caring environment while trying to accomplish learning objectives. Van Manen acknowledges such a skill however as something that is learned through practical experience but still does not diminish the importance of the role of theory. As a student teacher, it is important to be equipped with this background knowledge so that as we interact with students, we are aware of possible causes, motivations, and approaches to take with students. Such actions, given time and reflective practice can develop into the tact described in the article.

The quotes I selected specifically struck me as they identified ideas that may provide some insight to how else teachers can interpret situations they encounter.

1. “But by showing embarrassment the student reduces inequality and the effects of praise and pride.” (p. 4)  This quote highlighted the idea that between students and teachers, there is a balance of encouragement that each side is working toward to ensure learning.  However, it requires both the student and the teacher to be aware of what is expected of the other. In addition, teachers need to take into account the overall school culture that exists among students. In the example provided in the text, although it is an unfortunate attitude for students to feel embarrassed about their academic success, it is still necessary for the teacher to be aware and acknowledge how such perspectives can affect peer relationships.
2. “This split awareness of self manifests itself as a kind of natural schizophrenia whereby one part of the self somehow dialogues with the other part.” (p. 13)  Van Manen’s description of self-awareness in this quote described for me how a teacher could incorporate reflective practices so that teachers are continuously ensuring decisions made are effective and appropriate. There is an inner dialogue acting as a sort of “check and balance”.
3. “That is why good teachers often have difficulty identifying why things work so well for them (or why they do not work well for that matter).” (p. 19)   Van Manen’s summary of tact for me was summarized in this quote. Being aware of student and teacher interactions, inter-student interactions, and reflective practices work towards developing this sense of conduct that becomes habit or reflexive to the dynamic classroom setting.