Reflect on what you learned from the EdTalks project and how you could apply that knowledge or skill to your own teaching.
After reading ‘In the Wild Light’ and hearing other classmates cover other books I have learned, that reading diverse books and perspectives can expose teachers to new ideas, challenges, experiences and ways of thinking that make them more empathetic, self-aware, and responsive educators. A book may discuss innovations in reaching different learning styles that could inspire more creative, impactful lesson planning. It may reveal deeper understanding of challenges students face outside one’s own experience. It might advocate teaching philosophies that resonate. Really reflecting on books’ core messages can reinforce teachers’ sense of purpose. Feeling replenished helps combat burnout. Also if principles promote teacher self-care, wellness and healing from stresses they undertake as empathic mentors, this is invaluable. Truly powerful books also spark self-examination of one’s own unconscious biases or systemic issues facing marginalized groups. This drives greater commitment to equity and inclusion ideals in educational roles.
At best, books motivate teachers to keep fighting against equalities their students face. They fuel dedication to nurture all children equally to meet their highest potentials as learners and human beings.
