Christopher Emdin: Teach teachers how to create magic

Summary

In a thought-provoking discourse, the speaker critiques traditional teacher education for its lack of practical engagement techniques, contrasting it with the compelling methods used by master communicators in community settings like churches and concerts. Emphasizing the concept of 'Pentecostal pedagogy,' the speaker argues that effective teaching relies on the ability to captivate an audience. By advocating for an educational reform that prioritizes experiential learning and cultural immersion, the speaker believes aspiring educators can develop the 'magic' needed to inspire and engage their students, ultimately transforming classrooms into vibrant spaces of learning.

Takeaways

• 😀 Many aspiring teachers struggle to connect traditional education theories with their passion for impactful teaching.
• 😀 Engaging educators often possess skills developed outside formal educational training.
• 😀 'Pentecostal pedagogy' emphasizes the importance of engagement techniques found in black churches and rap concerts.
• 😀 Effective teaching involves performance and narrative skills that captivate and maintain student attention.
• 😀 Traditional teacher education programs focus too heavily on theory, neglecting practical engagement skills.
• 😀 Immersing future teachers in vibrant community settings can enhance their teaching effectiveness.
• 😀 Observing skilled communicators can help aspiring teachers learn valuable engagement techniques.
• 😀 The concept of 'magic' in teaching refers to the ability to engage and inspire students through dynamic presentation.
• 😀 Administrators often recognize effective teachers but struggle to articulate what makes them successful.
• 😀 Transforming teacher education to prioritize engagement could revitalize classrooms and enhance student learning.

Q & A

What is the main criticism of traditional teacher education programs according to Chris Emdin?

Emdin criticizes traditional teacher education programs for focusing too heavily on theory and standards, neglecting the engaging practices necessary for effective teaching.

How does Emdin define 'magic' in the context of teaching?

Emdin defines 'magic' as the engaging techniques and skills that captivate students' attention and enhance their learning experience, which he believes can be taught.

What examples does Emdin provide to illustrate effective engagement in education?

Emdin cites examples from black churches, barbershops, and rap concerts, where skilled speakers use storytelling and audience interaction to engage listeners.

What does Emdin mean by 'Pentecostal pedagogy'?

Pentecostal pedagogy refers to the dynamic teaching methods used by preachers in black churches, characterized by engaging language, audience participation, and storytelling techniques.

Why does Emdin encourage aspiring teachers to leave the confines of the university?

He encourages aspiring teachers to immerse themselves in real-world environments where they can observe and learn effective engagement techniques from successful educators.

What role does audience engagement play in effective teaching, according to Emdin?

Audience engagement is crucial; it keeps students attentive and enhances their learning, making them active participants rather than passive recipients.

How does Emdin suggest aspiring teachers can learn to create magic in their classrooms?

Emdin suggests that aspiring teachers should study and emulate the techniques of engaging speakers by observing performances in informal settings like concerts and community events.

What is the significance of the phrase 'Don't smile till November' mentioned in the transcript?

This phrase reflects the traditional belief taught to new teachers that they must maintain a strict demeanor initially to establish authority, which Emdin critiques as counterproductive to genuine engagement.

How does Emdin relate the experiences of master teachers to those of traditional teacher education graduates?

He argues that master teachers, who effectively engage students, often do not have formal teacher training, highlighting a disconnect between academic preparation and practical teaching skills.

What vision does Emdin have for the future of teacher education?

Emdin envisions a teacher education system that prioritizes teaching engagement and practical skills alongside content knowledge, ultimately revitalizing the educational experience.