Brian's Class Reflection - 14 July 2011

I would first like to thank Zina for her insight in leading the class discussion and the activity. I was really intrigued by how people can differentiate their steps based on emotional reaction to the question. I would love to do that with my students because I want my students to realize that despite being a white male, I have my own struggles - life has not been a crystal staircase for sure. I also appreciate our whole class discussion, it was great to hear perspectives outside of our small groups and everyone has their own expertise so it was great to hear multiple perspectives. WE DO NEED TO GET OVER THE OPPRESSION OF HAVING TO RAISE OUR HANDS! I am guilty of it too, but we need to make a conscious effort to know when to assert ourselves as well as to reflect and listen.

As for the content of the class, I really was moved by how little our education system has changed. Horace Mann really tried to better education, to equalize it so everyone had a chance to succeed and that is what we all need to strive to do. But sadly, we seem to be at a Jefferson ideal. As a country,we need to honestly step back and acknowledge our mistakes and move towards healing. But who wants to accept they are wrong? Who wants to accept that they have been living a lie. It is similar to an alcoholic - there is no problem, I can overcome this. But what we need to overcome as a country is that it is alright to ask for help. It is fine to make mistakes as long as you learn from them, and be a better person from them. Let us acknowledge our mistakes...