The Importance of Perspective

The view or perspective of a person watching an object can change the meaning and experience of the viewer. The optical illusion to the left is a prime example. Based on a person’s perspective they can see either an old lady or a young woman. Because of this two different people can see two different things by viewing the same image. So how does this relate to the classroom and more importantly the students in the classroom?

Perspective plays a part in how the student views achievement in all parts of life, this includes their view of literacy. This perspective is formed at a young age and continues to grow and develop as the child grows. As the video states, “I wrote exactly the kind of stories I was reading…what this demonstrates is how impressionable and vulnerable we are in the face of a story… I had become convinced that books had to relate to things and people I could not identify with…” Like the video suggests, it is important to have a verity of types of people represented that the students can identify with. This allows students to connect with literacy in an easier way and encourages them to continue in their academic life. This is very important during middle school because this is the time that early adolescents form their identity and where they fit in in life.

“An awareness of the cultural identity of the student affects how well the student will interact with the teacher, how well the student will interact with his or her peers, and how the student views his or her acceptance within the cultural group and within the classroom (Campbell 2004).”

This statement supports that if the student can make a positive identity of school they are more likely to feel acceptance within the classroom and this can help push them to success.

An educator can do many things to help students in the classroom. By using different and diverse approaches to literacy and education, a teacher can help students feel comfortable in the classroom. Teachers are more effective when they embrace and encourage a student’s interests and strengths to help them dive into the curriculum. The most helpful thing a teacher can do is empower students to succeed by providing them with a learning environment that respects, embraces, and celebrates their diversity.

Sources:

Bell-Rose, S. (2007). Three Expert Perspectives: The Importance of International Education. Retrieved October 05, 2016, from http://www.edutopia.org/perspectives-international-education

Campbell, D. E. 2004. Choosing democracy: A practical guide to multicultural education, 3rd ed. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Merrill.

Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, 2009 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D9Ihs241zeg