Read on Twitter
Thread: A week or so ago I published a tweet explaining that teachers can be biased against certain cohort groups. Some people reacted with disgust, disdain and disapproval.
What follows is a response from a teacher who read #boysdonttry. Observe the honest and humility in accepting unconscious biases. This is a lesson for all:
‘A few bits I took from the first podcast. Got me thinking which I’m guessing was the point... Terms of endearment:
girls are princess, sweetie, my lovely
boys are mate, pal, legend
Don't think this is a huge issue. Some boys might be gutted not to be called sweetie’
girls are princess, sweetie, my lovely
boys are mate, pal, legend
Don't think this is a huge issue. Some boys might be gutted not to be called sweetie’
‘Assessment: Have actually said about boys, "He will be fine. He will be a (insert stereotypical building job) and make more money than all of us." Never said this about a girl.
Yeah, This is a problem. I do worry that I may have not pushed certain boys as hard as I could have’
Yeah, This is a problem. I do worry that I may have not pushed certain boys as hard as I could have’
‘I think that I may have been tougher on boys (maybe tougher is the wrong word. Might mean more honest) with regard to feedback. More nurturing with girl students academically.
Possibly have had a mind-set of - boys are tougher, will get through, don't need as much protection.’
Possibly have had a mind-set of - boys are tougher, will get through, don't need as much protection.’
‘Have definitely been harsher with boys in terms of certain behaviours.
Very unfair. Must be upsetting for the boys who probably think that I have favourites.’
Very unfair. Must be upsetting for the boys who probably think that I have favourites.’
‘Over the past year, I have been to see a number of children in outside of school activities. These are all sport related and are all boys. Constant references to football. Children who hate football must get sick of it. Also limits certain children to one skillset.’
That, people, is how teachers should respond when told they may stereotype: with considered, careful and honest reflection.
