[ELTWeekly Volume 8, Issue 11 | June 27, 2016 | ISSN 0975-3036]
As a fan of boxing, it’s easy to compare the world of education to this fascinating sport. Educators, regardless of their role, have ringside seats to a main event focused on transforming education. There are always competing initiatives (going toe-to-toe), which can be difficult to navigate. Despite the constant battles, those who want to make a difference never throw in the towel.
Teachers and students hit the canvas each day. Teachers work to create independent learners who can get themselves out of a clinch. When a student gets knocked down, a passionate teacher will ensure they are back on their feet before the eight count. Most importantly, effective teachers provide maximum opportunities for students to officiate their learning experiences!
In celebration of the the greatest, here are five Muhammad Ali quotes that have inspired me as an educator.
1. “He who is not courageous enough to take risks will accomplish nothing in life.”
If failure is always placed in the context of a summative, it is very unlikely that students will feel comfortable taking academic risks. Opportunities to grapple with problems and solutions are key to an environment that promotes risk-taking. Invite learners to ask questions and frame mistakes as a natural part of the learning process.