What we believe shapes how we treat students at school

Hey Advocates! 

Last night, I talked about the power of Social Learning Theory in shaping how we treat students at school. Social Learning Theory, as proposed by psychologist Albert Bandura, tells us that we learn by watching others and mimicking their behavior. And guess what? This theory dramatically impacts how educators and students interact in the classroom.

Think about it: as educators, we're not just there to teach math or science. We're also role models for the kids. Our attitudes, beliefs, and actions can influence how students see themselves and their peers. When we treat everyone respectfully and believe in their abilities, we create an environment where positive social learning can thrive. Consider the students who often are quiet or have identities different from most of their peers. How we treat them may impact how their peers treat them as well.

It's not just about us, though. Students learn from each other, too. They're more likely to follow suit when they see their peers showing kindness, inclusivity, and respect. On the flip side, negative behaviors or biases can spread through social learning, impacting the overall vibe of the school.

Beyond the classroom, more significant issues like cultural influences, biases, and systemic inequalities also shape how students are treated. This means that creating an environment that's equitable, inclusive, and supportive takes some intentional effort.

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Join me for an enlightening webinar as we delve into crucial aspects of personal growth, societal understanding, and combating systemic oppression. In this session, we will unravel the "Limitations of Self-Perceived Knowledge" and shed light on the pitfalls of assuming one's knowledge is exhaustive without ongoing education or training. We'll explore how this mindset may hinder personal development and contribute to blind spots in understanding complex societal issues.

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1. Examine the limitations of self-perceived knowledge and its impact on personal growth.
2. Discuss the delicate balance between life experiences and formal education in addressing social issues.
3. Emphasize the importance of ongoing self-awareness and continuous education in combating systemic racism.
4. Foster a proactive approach to anti-racist practices through relationship building and active engagement.

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So, what's the takeaway here? Understanding Social Learning Theory can help us be more mindful of the examples we're setting and the interactions we promote in our schools. By being deliberate about modeling equitable, respectful, and inclusive behavior, we can harness the power of social learning to create a school environment that's a better fit for all students. In other words, it's all about ensuring that what students observe and experience in our schools reflects the values of equity and social justice.

Content Created This Week

Those are my thoughts this week. Make sure you check out Monday's podcast episode next week.

Have a great weekend,

-Sheldon

Book Dr. Eakins

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