What's our role as teachers?

                I liked how the chapter initially starts off by picking apart the different ways to describe work. I think it is important to look at all the different meanings because "work" means something different to everyone. The definition of "vocation" is "goes well beyond sustenance and survival; it guarantees personal autonomy and personal significance" (Kumar, 6). It is important that teacher's view their line of work as a mix of vocation and profession. Teaching should be rewarding, your way of giving back to others. Too often, people get into teaching for the wrong reasons and they fail as teachers because it has no personal significance. They can't share a memory or a feeling of why they chose to become teachers.

                Also, on page 7, it states, "The teacher has been variously referred to as an artist and an architect; a scientist and a psychologist; a manager and a mentor…".  Many times I don't think people understand all the roles someone must assume when becoming a teacher. Kids spend eight hours, five days a week, inside the classroom; more time then they spend at home during the week. It is our job to be role models, mentors, people of authority, and people who respect them. Students may trust us with their secrets, troubles at home, problems at school, it's surprising what they will tell you when they feel respected and safe. In order to create a safe environment, we have to have patience and establish respect not only between ourselves and our students but amongst the students as well. Patience is a crucial element to being a good teacher. We all have to assume there will be days that are beyond frustrating and seem hopeless. Those are the days that really measure the difference between a good and bad teacher. A good teacher will remain calm and patient and think of a backup plan to get through the day. A bad teacher will give up and show their frustration. What are some methods we can use as teachers to push through bad days? The book also mentions the unification of theory and practice. Should we rely on theory to form our curriculum in the classroom?