SOL day 7Situation: I work at a children’s center and the group went to play sports this week with the college club sports members. During the volleyball portion, one of the balls rolled into a corner and a boy went to get it. He called me over to help because there was a big bug next to the ball.I was shocked by his reaction because he seemed like someone who wouldn’t mind about bugs. I realized afterwards that I had gender stereotyped him – I assumed that because he acted tougher and played rough games that he would be fine with insects. This has been something that my graduate program focuses on because they want us to be aware of our cultural biases. I am trying very hard not to make assumptions, but in our society, it is difficult. I am glad that it came to my attention though with this particular scenario. As a teacher, it is important to keep all your students equal in your mind and not have stereotypes towards them.
Love the bug graphic. One cultural bias ingrained in teachers is the idea that we can free ourselves from all bias. Isn’t that, too, a type of bias?
LikeLiked by 1 person
very interesting point!
LikeLike
I have to admit, that is surprising. Kids usually like bugs. Lesson learned. Thanks for sharing.
LikeLiked by 1 person
yea it was a big bug – many kids are fascinated by them but also scared.
LikeLike
It is so hard not to make assumptions about people based on looks and actions. This is something we all need to strive to do away with. What a better world we would live in if we did.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank goodness for our graduate programs! My awareness was raised when I was in graduate school and has been uppermost in my thinking about my students and my own stereotypes.
LikeLiked by 1 person
yea, I’m glad too!
LikeLike
So important! It is hard to stop making assumptions. I know that one of my sons seems like a rough and tumble kid… and he has a hard time with sitting still and being kind to everyone else… but in reality he is a sensitive kid trying to make his way and figure it all out. The one hope that I hold on to is that his teachers will continue to meet him without assumptions and stereotypes. Thanks for thinking about this and writing about it too!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Funny how bugs are the great societal equalizer 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Bug phobia is genderless, I find – even among my “toughest” sixth graders.
LikeLiked by 1 person
This is so true. We think all little boys like bugs, truck, tractors… I have a tendency to look at books specifically for boys or girls. Think equal.
LikeLiked by 1 person
yeah, it is tough in our society but very important!
LikeLike
Thanks for the reminder not to make generalizations and assumptions!
LikeLiked by 1 person
you’re welcome!
LikeLike