This is the superpower teachers need to flex | Kwame Alexander | Big Think

TL;DR

Kwame Alexander discusses the importance of inspiration in education and how it can lead to success.

Transcript

KWAME ALEXANDER: I believe that if we feel a certain type of way, if we are inspired in a really profound way that connects with us emotionally then pretty much anything that comes after that is doable. So if I'll go into a school and speak to some high school students I'm not going to read from my book. Maybe if it's a 45 minute presentation I'm g... Read More

Key Insights

• ❓ Inspiration is the foundation for successful learning and growth.
• 🧑‍🎓 Engaging with students through personal stories and interaction is a powerful teaching approach.
• 🧑‍🎓 Sharing stories and encouraging creativity can foster a sense of connection and identity in students.
• 🧑‍🎓 Teachers have the responsibility to mold and shape students positively.
• 👾 Building trust and creating a safe space are essential for impactful teaching and challenging conversations.
• 🤗 Emotionally opening oneself up can lead to personal growth and learning.
• ❓ Acknowledging mistakes and committing to improvement is a crucial part of the learning process.

Questions & Answers

Q: How does Kwame Alexander structure his presentations to high school students?

Kwame spends the majority of his time sharing stories about his writerly life and encouraging interaction with the students. He only shares excerpts from his books towards the end to illustrate the power of inspiration.

Q: What is the role of inspiration in learning?

Kwame believes that feeling inspired is crucial for effective learning. It helps individuals understand the importance of what they're learning and creates a connection with their own identity, making them more likely to retain and apply the knowledge.

Q: Where did Kwame Alexander find his own inspiration?

Kwame's mother played a significant role in inspiring him. She shared African folktales, sang songs, and shared poems, encouraging him to create his own stories. Her approach instilled a sense of curiosity, connection, and a desire to explore his own identity.

Q: How can teachers create a safe space for challenging conversations?

According to Kwame, teachers must establish trust and emphasize that the classroom is a safe space. This allows students to feel comfortable and open themselves up emotionally, making challenging conversations and growth possible.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Kwame Alexander believes that inspiration is the key to learning and growth. He shares personal stories and engages with students before imparting knowledge from his books.

• He emphasizes the significance of feeling the importance of what needs to be learned in order to truly understand and apply it.

• Kwame's own inspiration came from his mother, who shared stories and encouraged him to create his own, instilling a sense of connection and identity.