Good teachers join self and subject and students in the fabric of life.
This quote beautifully encapsulates the essence of effective teaching. It suggests that good teaching is not just about imparting knowledge on a particular subject but involves a holistic integration of the teacher’s self, the subject matter, and the students into the broader context of life.
The ‘self’ here refers to the teacher’s personal identity, beliefs, values, and experiences. A good teacher doesn’t just teach from a textbook but brings their unique perspective and life experiences into the classroom. By doing so, they make the subject more relatable and engaging for the students.
The ‘subject’ is not just a standalone topic to be taught and forgotten. It is woven into the fabric of life, having real-world applications and connections to other areas of knowledge. A good teacher helps students see these connections, making the subject more meaningful and relevant.
The ‘students’ are not passive recipients of knowledge. They are active participants in the learning process, bringing their own backgrounds, perspectives, and curiosities into the classroom. A good teacher acknowledges and values this diversity, fostering a learning environment where every student feels seen and heard.
In today’s world, this idea is more relevant than ever. In an era of information overload, it’s not enough to just teach facts. Teachers need to help students make sense of the information, see its relevance to their lives, and apply it in diverse contexts. This involves building strong relationships with students, understanding their backgrounds and interests, and tailoring the teaching approach to meet their needs.
In terms of personal development, this quote reminds us that learning is not a solitary or passive activity. It’s an active, social process that involves connecting with others, integrating different areas of knowledge, and applying what we learn to real-world situations. Whether we’re learning a new skill, pursuing a hobby, or advancing our career, we can take a cue from this quote and strive to integrate our learning into the fabric of our lives.
