In the last post I commented on my selection of the "Key Global Issues of Our Time," identifying five issues that in my opinion should become part of every global education curriculum.
Obviously, we cannot limit the global issues of concern to humans at this point in time to only five. We should be focusing on 10 or 15 issues that are worthy of our efforts (for example, the energy crisis, over-consumption among the world's ultra rich, and the rapidly approaching global water crisis.)
The purpose behind limiting my initial selection to five and asking readers to make their own selection was to promote critical thinking and forced ranking in order to intensify the level of analysis normally given to major global issues.
As anyone can see, our readers did an outstanding job commenting on my selections and offering others of their own choosing. Great job!
A frequently asked question among educators is, "Don't we create unnecessary pessimism when we discuss such heavy-duty global issues in the classroom?" I believe the real educational problem is a different one. Yes, there may be moments of pessimism in the classroom as we consider the by-products of climate change, or the aftermath of a nuclear confrontation. However, do we do our students and their parents -- or human society -- a favor by ignoring the obvious?
Some issues are as problematic as they are real. As educators, we do not have a choice to lie to our students about the nature of the reality they inhabit. A lie of omission is a betrayal of our educational duty to speak truth to our students.
While unnecessary pessimism ("The sky is falling and there is nothing you can do about it!") is neither realistic nor functional, rosy optimism and the lie of silence are unworthy of being considered real "education." We must insist on the objective presentation of the real dangers to global health and well-being, at the same time that we make clear that these issues are largely of human manufacture and can be solved or ameliorated with proper focus, analysis, and commitment.
We live now in the world created by our ancestors. By most accounts, they did not do a terrific job. We can -- and must -- do better. Our students will have that duty as part of their "job description" for living in peace and justice on planet Earth. Lying about the nature of the reality they face isn't going to improve their future. Quite the contrary -- it will make their lives worse.
And when, you may ask, should we confront our students with their real world? As soon as possible, and at the level of cognitive functioning that they are capable of. Any simplification of an issue's complexity or harshness should be indulged in only to adapt instruction to the students' intellectual capability -- not to pretend that the world is rosier than it is, or to make it easier for the teacher to trek through difficult terrain.
As a human family, we can create a better world and a better future for all -- but only if we are well informed of the reality we inhabit and have the wisdom and the courage to commit to the creation of that better world.
If we do our job as educators, our students will do their job as the creators of a better world.
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You do not go into war blindfolded.
ReplyDeleteFuture generations deserve a fighting chance.
I believe that children should be well equipped for future scenarios they may have to face. They have the full right as conscious individuals to know what is happening in the world and know what they can do to solve it.
There is a reason why earth is called earth and not “Magical Fairland Fantasy World”. Every day we are faced with difficult decisions and have to make the best of sometimes unpleasant situations. The dilemmas of today will become the conundrums of tomorrow if not solved. Future generations should know about the mess they would be getting themselves into if things continues as they are. Even if these dilemmas are solved I believe students should still have the full right to know what happens in the world that will one day eventually be theirs.
Many time people want to sugarcoat the unpleasant but all they are really doing is prolonging the problem and becoming disillusioned. What good is that to anyone? The best way to solve a problem is head on, running away never solved anything.
Eventually they will be faced with these situations and have to fend for themselves. You cannot protect them forever. It is better if they understand now than if they be suddenly overwhelmed and dumbfounded later.
I agree with the fact that teachers should tell the students what is going on in the world. The students deserve to know the truth and not telling them might lead them to think every thing is alright and going well when in reality it is not. Being pessimistic would be telling them that they could not help the problem or that it will never be solved and that is something teachers should not do because they are discouraging them to be active global citizens. But sometimes the truth is pessimistic like the example of consequences of climate change or the nuclear problem listed above. No matter how optimistic the teacher might be about the problem, the truth or the "realistic side" of it is going to be pessimistic…pretty much like all of the other global problems. Being realistic is different because you would be telling them the truth and encouraging them to try to solve the problem. Being too positive might not be such a good idea because when they realize that some things cannot be changed so much they will be disappointed, I guess. Overall, students should not be deprived of the truth because when they go out into the world, they would go thinking everything is peachy and that is like blinding them. Some people would call not telling them what is happening "protecting them from the truth". It would not be fair if they did not know or were not informed about events that were taking place in the world they lived in.
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeletePart 1 of 2:
ReplyDeleteTo begin with, there definitely are around ten to fifteen issues that are worthy of our efforts in this world, if not more. The quantity of issues is not as important, though, as analyzing them and focusing on addressing them. ‘“Don't we create unnecessary pessimism when we discuss such heavy-duty global issues in the classroom?”’ The answer to this question is: “absolutely no.” Sure, we do create pessimism when we speak about some of the top global issues in the classroom, and this is unavoidable considering the dreadful magnitude of some of these issues and the possible future effects they could have on this only planet we humans have to reside in. However, the pessimism is definitely not unnecessary. It is not unnecessary because of the horrid magnitude these issues possess. If we ignore these problems in order to avoid this “pessimism,” we will only be self-destructing. If we focus on optimism or if we do not express these issues to students, we will be doing one thing to the youth of today. We will be utterly and completely lying to them. The dangers are real and they are here, right now. Not addressing them in hopes of being optimistic is lying, and it is simply avoiding a reality that is as real as any material object on earth.
What will happen if we do lie and we do fail to address these issues that are happening all throughout the world right now? Well, it is very simple. We will continue on the same detrimental path the world has embarked on for numerous years. It is no secret that there are innumerable issues in this world, and they will only continue if we do not address them now and let the future generation know of them as rapidly as possible. The children and students of today are the ones that will be mainly responsible for dealing with these issues. Well, if they are not taught, from right now, what these issues are, how could they possibly help resolve them in the future? Our future depends on our teaching of these issues to the youth of today. Therefore, I more than wholeheartedly agree that “as soon as possible” is definitely the only answer to: when should we confront the students of today with their real world?
-Kevin Pardinas
Part 2 of 2:
ReplyDeleteOf course, it is important to confront our students with these issues at their level of cognitive awareness. If we do not, they can get truly overwhelmed and not understand the full complexity of some of these issues. If the teaching is methodical, students will be able to better understand the issues and understand their tremendous importance on an even greater level. However, although we must not allow the complexity of these issues to overcome students, we must most definitely make sure we do address the true fact that these issues are completely complex and not easy to resolve. Furthermore, though, we must also, like mentioned in this blog, tell them that, although complex, a great majority of these issues have been caused by us humans and therefore can be resolved.
In order to make this world a better place, these issues must be addressed now, without worrying about “unnecessary pessimism.” It is more than foolish to lie to students or to pretend that these all-important issues are not occurring in the world today. We cannot let the students of today, the future generation of this world that will be responsible for solving these issues, walk into the dark as they confront their future. We have the responsibility, to our children and the future of this world, to address these issues now, to teach these children, forget “unnecessary pessimism,” and make sure that this world can become a better place for all of humanity in the future. It is more than true that only if we do our part can our students do their part to create a world that no longer embarks on this detrimental pathway that can lead to the destruction of this earth. We must assume responsibility and, through a well-prepared global education, teach the students of today about the monumental global issues in the world today and prepare them, while preparing our planet, for a greater future.
-Kevin Pardinas
I completely agree with the author when he states that “If we do our job as educators, our students will do their job as the creators of a better world.” It is a very sad truth that in today’s society many students are ignorant about what is going on in our world. Disastrous events have forced us to see pessimism become optimism and optimism become realism in our world. In order for us to have a fair chance at survival we must be extremely optimistic and try anything and everything possible to save our one and only planet earth from the catastrophic global issues we face. Of course students should not have negative or pessimistic teachers either however, since our world is optimistic and subjective, education should be too. Education was designed to prepare students for the real world, and if students are not aware of the real world then educators are failing to do their job. Educators must fight the “what if” questions regarding pessimism and instead they should focus on forming global citizens. If educators don’t inform their students of the catastrophes in our world, the students will live fake and unrealistic lives. A perfect example is the latest catastrophe in the country of Haiti. Many schools are conducting food drives to relieve the poor victims of the earthquake in Haiti. However are the school officials truly informing their students why they need our help? Are they aware of the thousands of dead, injured and homeless Haitians that lost everything to a single earthquake? Or are they simply informed of the prettier picture of the hazard caused? We need to educate our students with the true magnitude of the global issues we are living today. Students must be able to learn about our world's reality so they won’t commit the errors that humans have made in the past and present. The present is the key to the future and if we are going to help our world survive through the current global issues we need to start today by bringing truth to our students.
ReplyDelete- Gerryanne Rivadeneira
I agree that teachers should tell the truth to their students because we deserve to know the truth and not be lied to. Teachers also have to face reality and know that all of todays issues for example climate change are pessimistic and that they cant lie to us about it because were gonna find out eventually. By them lying they are just affecting our education. If our educators lie to us about global issues and are just trying to cover them up how are we supposed to make the world that our ancestors made better then it already is? And yes it would make our lifes a lot more difficult if we were lied to because we couldnt live in peace on Earth. The quote on the bottom that says something along the lines of if we do our job as educators then our students will do their job as creators of a better world is actually true because if teachers are do as they are told then we students will learn what we need to learn in order to fix these key global issues and make the world better then what our ancestors did and we will be able to live in peace. So protecting us from the truth of the global issues that are happening around us is not fair and it will only affect us in a bad way.
ReplyDeleteI surely agree with the idea that we should focus on at least ten to fifteen issues that are worth our time. But considering the importance on the issues is not how many you analyze but that you at least fully understand and address them. Yes, we do create pessimism when we talk about these issues, but have you ever considered that the reason for this is because its probably the only way people really realize its important. If the teachers don’t address these issues with pessimism and don’t tell us the great effects it can cause then it wont make such a great deal to us. We shouldn’t try to avoid this pessimism because its what’s helping the students focus on the importance and help view the world as it is and what’s really happening. Teacher would be completely lying to the students if they address the issue with optimism. If they do, they will be addressing them with hope in the future, hope that is not there. We will all continue on the same path and we would fail to address the issues. If the students are not taught from now about these issues, then how could they find a solution to them if they’re not even focusing on resolving them in the future? Our future depends on the students and what they’re being taught.
ReplyDeleteSo in order to make this a better place we need to stop worrying about unnecessary pessimism. We cannot let the students of today, the generation of tomorrow, be lied too. Teachers should inform them as much as possible with the truth so they can be prepared to have ideas to solve the issues in the future.
I agree that we need to focus on ten to fifteen issues that include the energy and water crisis. However, I also believe that some issues should be looked at and focused more than others. For example, I believe that the Female Awakening and poverty should be one of the issues that should have the most priority. The issues that cause more threat and have a change for the better with a solution should be prioritized. These certain issues should be fully understood by our students.
ReplyDeleteThe pessimism that we create for these global issues is unnecessary for our students, as well as for ourselves. Pessimism about these issues will influence students that there is no possible way that the issues can be solved. If that is the case, then the students would not care and simply give up on working on solutions to aid the problem. Optimism is not any better. When we give a highly positive attitude towards the issues, our students will generally create the wrong idea. They will conclude to idealistic solutions that would be impossible to work with. Both optimism and pessimism are not actually the truth, as they are biased and lean on one side of the argument. Finally, I believe realism is the key to solving issues. By informing our students about the truth and staying mediated about these issues, we would be doing our job as global educators.
“If we do our job as educators, our students will do their job as the creators of a better world.”
I highly agree that there are more than 5 issues that should be taken notice of. 10 or 15 is just a start of the amount of important issues occurring globally. It was interesting ranking the five issues from the last blog because it allowed us students to analyze those five issues presented to us in more depth and help us understand them better. I wouldn’t say that the issues we discuss in class may create “unnecessary pessimism” but create doubts, questions, opinions, and probably solutions in globally focused class. It’s is never positive to expect the worst from a situation because what the mind should be focused on is a goal. If the mind isn’t set on a goal then it only thinks about the negative occurring. It is never good to shelter young minds from reality. Reality is what helps young minds develop and mature with knowledge and understanding. There are issues that may be inappropriate to be discussed but only to a certain extent. There is a major difference between acknowledging fact and acknowledging belief. Preaching belief is a problematic discussion in a classroom because everyone is different and an educator may not know how the students may take in the information they are given when it is based on opinion. But discussing opinions based on facts is always needed to understand points of view. It is obvious that our ancestors “did not do a terrific job” in the world they have created for us but is has to be taken in consideration that they didn’t have the knowledge, power, and technology that we have now to make a better future. These advances that we have now can not be put into use if the ones who obtain it don’t understand the world around them. The job of an educator is to educate, not to protect students from what they think young minds should not be aware of. But if the future in our hands then we have to keep history from repeating itself! Overall, I agree that educators should do there job for us students or creators to do a better job with the world our ancestors have left us.
ReplyDeleteStudents will have the power to one day change the world in the future most definitely for the better. However, there is something that students need in order to do this, and that is proper information. Students deserve to know the proper truth of every situation even if it may be pessimistic at times. Even though there is pessimism created when talking about so many issues, it may be the only way to make people fully realize what is happening in the world or what could happen. Pessimism is what helps students stay focused on the problems of the world and how important it is to solve these problems. If teachers tell us everything with complete optimism, it’s practically lying because everything cannot be looked at from a positive perspective. Optimism would give students hope when in reality that hope really isn’t there. With this false hope students would fail to fully address all the issues, they would fail to resolve them.
ReplyDeleteEducators must educate their students of what exactly is happening and not try to protect them from information they think is harmful to us, not telling proper information would be the true harm. By knowing the true reality students will be able to stay away from the mistakes made in the past and make choices that will lead to a better tomorrow. The reality is what students need and what must be taught in order to help our world survive through the problems of today.
In the 20th century, when we didn't have technology turning us into global citizens (whether we wish to be or not) and our connection to other countries' problems wasn't right in our faces, perhaps this argument of "too much pessimism" might have been accepted but in our 21st century society, there is no way that can be embraced.
ReplyDeleteDue to our ignorance and apathy in the past, those issues "too pessimistic" for students' "tender minds" have escalated and while they are harder to bear than ever before, there is now no way to ignore them. Even if schools tiptoed around global issues, students would come in contact with them. In the 21st century, it's impossible not to be even minimally informed. Rather than let students encounter the harsh reality of global problems at their own risk and let them battle with the inevitable pessimism, it would be wiser to grant them a guide who stands before them and says "Yes, the problems are tough, but we can fix them," injecting the necessary optimism to establish realism. Teachers should be their guides through all the chaos, helping them find their position amidst it all and perhaps teaching them how to create order amongst all that chaos. (As you mentioned, simplification of global issues should only occur to accommodate understanding but never to a degree where reality is distorted.)
Inescapably, we are all global citizens now and anyone born from here on will also be a global citizen. The purpose of education is to help students navigate through the world later on and that means education needs to evolve with the times. If we're all going to become global citizens, schools need to be educating students on how to be the best global citizens possible. It's their responsibility.
Ignorance is bliss. Or, at least, that has been the common expression for as long as I can remember. But does it still apply to us today? I wonder if we will still be happy if we continue to live in ignorance from the many impending issues going on in the world around us. Will we still be able to go about our daily lives without the knowledge and information necessary to continue living on this planet? I’m afraid that the answer to all these rhetorical yet realistic questions is the same: no.
ReplyDeleteAdults, in hopes of being optimistic, do not share a plethora of information with the younger ones. Maybe it is to shelter and protect them, or maybe it is to preserve their innocence. Still, this blindfolded approach is obviously not beneficial for anyone involved in the situation. Instead of being too optimistic, I think adults, parents and educators alike, should strive to educate the future generation as best as they can. That way, they could be equipped with all the knowledge available to them to be effective leaders. Only then will those leaders have the proper tools necessary to develop and grow in knowledge and information. This, of course, is called realism. It stems from being responsible, reasonable, and sensible, which is a much better strategy than being ignorant by wanting to be overly positive.
I strongly agree with the fact that educators shouldn’t be sheltering students so much that they live in a bubble of innocence and naïveté. After all, the teacher aren’t going to be the ones stepping out into the real world, hoping to solve all the prominent global issues central to survival. They will not be the ones hold each and every child’s hand as they step into the dark abyss. Instead, the students, as the future generation and global leaders to inhibit this planet, should be the ones holding the torch for others to follow in their footsteps, into the light of the next day.
--Chrystie del Valle
If we come to think about it, it is terryfing the perspective that most of the students have of global issues. The reason is that once they are studying an issue many teachers or proffesors, begin the subject with a really pessimistic point of view. As a result, the students are going to have the same pessimist focus on the issue.
ReplyDeleteNow, teachers and proffesors that plan in sharing a global perspective to their students should have a realistic optimism approach. That way the students will have a different understanding of the issue and will focus even more on finding a solution because they are to a certain point convinced that the issue being discussed have a possible solution. The difficult part of this method reaches the surface when the global educator talks about the optimistic side of the issue. He or she has to be careful in not decreasing the size of the problems and difficulties of the issue. If this were to happen, it would be giving the students the wrong data on the subject, which might lead to weak solutions once is their turn to actually change the world.
The objective of the controlled optimism approach is to give the student the data he or she needs to figura out a solution the problem. The student needs to know all the heart breaking facts as well as the hope-giving ones. Conequently, once theyhave the chance to go and make a change in the world they are going to be able to find a balanced solution that will actually fix the problem or provide relief to the issue. The future although some say is the duty of the new generation, it is actually the great responsability of the educators. They are and will be the ones to make the students aware of the situation the world is going through and contribute to the new generation create a better world to live.
Lies and omissions can only be kept away for so long… and the greater the time which they are hidden, the greater the fall will be once the truth is discovered. For this reason I am in agreement with the author when he says that we must make our students realize the issues which they are to face once they grow older, taking into consideration their level of cognitive awareness. Students must be aware of the global issues which are affecting their lives today, in the hope that they will have the ability to solve them in the future. The great mistake and misunderstanding held by today’s educators the belief that awareness means “unnecessary pessimism”. A great amount of today’s educators believe that these issues will be solved before students are sent out to the real world or that these global issues may be too great of a burden for students.
ReplyDeleteHowever, educators do not realize that extremes cannot be taken and a medium must be found where education can be incorporated with awareness. This will provide students with the opportunity to become successful global leaders and hopefully one day have the ability to solve the global issues which affect us all today. Present day leaders and those in charge of solving today’s issues were once students, students who were never aware of the problems they are faced with today. This may also be one of the vital reasons why these issues have not yet been solved. For this exact reason we must act now and empower our future leaders with ways to find solutions to these issues as fast as possible, and this can only be done by making them aware of the conflicts which they most likely will become responsible for as they are exposed to the real world.
The main idea to always keep in mind while confronting our students with the “real world” is to always let them know that no matter how serious a conflict may be, these were manufactured by man and therefore can be restored by man as well.
I do believe that students should be completely submitted into all of the world’s tragedies and catastrophes. In order for any action to be taken by our students they must understand the utter disaster occurring around the world. I don’t believe that the term pessimism should be used however. Yes, the global terror in our world is shocking and crude but it is the truth; and students must see the truth. Of course, the truth is not always sunshine and butterflies. The truth can be brutal, inhumane, and ghastly, but the very truth is what will make people notice the horrid occurrences in the world. Realism is more appropriate in this sense. What teachers should demonstrate to their students is that the world can be horrifying but it is real. The children dying of malnutrition, diseases plaguing people across the world, violence ravaging our global community at every corner is REAL. So, yes the truth can be distressing and utterly excruciating, but realism and the optimistic outlook that these problems can be solved is what will get them through the day. It does not matter if the issues are incredibly vile. If students want to contribute; seeing the truth will be the only way how.
ReplyDeleteOptimism is key. Students need to remember that no matter how horrid the issues around the world are they can at least contribute slightly to the ordeal one way or another. By optimism I do not mean that the evils of the world should be surpassed. Optimism should simply be used as a tool to aid students (future global leaders) in finding solutions to these grave dilemmas. The bottom line is that pessimism occurs all around us; every moment of every day. It is up to students to potentially solve these problems. The only hope present to accomplish this is having teachers demonstrate the pessimism and realism of our world.
Teachers should be able to tell their students the truth about the global issues presented on the previous post and of the daily occurrence of events around the globe. However something as serious as Global Warming shouldn’t be on a scale of optimism or pessimism. The issue can’t be represented as “If we don’t recycle and change our habits the world will be terminated in a few years.” This pessimism shouldn’t be given to students because as the author said most of the problems that we are having currently they are humanly emulated and have a solution. The negative reaction allows for people to feel so incompetent to change it all at once that they eventually give up.
ReplyDeleteHowever telling students that it is all fixable and have a fairytale ending is also unrealistic. Even if we are able to fix the problems it isn’t going to be an easy task. It’s not something that is going to occur overnight. The only ways to give information to students is in a realistic way and give options on how to resolve the situation given.
Realistic information allows for the situation to seems plausible and make it so it can have a solution. This allows for the student to develop the reasoning to grasp any situation and find a solution without the drama of being a pessimist or an optimist. This will make a fully proper functioning individual of tomorrow’s society. With individuals like this the future will be a brighter more functioning one.
When discussing such problematic issues as nuclear proliferation and climate change there is always going to be some unconditional pessimism involved in the discussion. The job of the teacher however is to not completely blind the student of the opposite perspective. There is always a ying to a yang and no matter what you can classify and evaluate both sides of an argument even an argument with such a global affect as nuclear proliferation or even climate change. The world may have been erupted with a bumpy start but the human race is not one of perfection. There are cases in which our emotions interfere with the common goal.
ReplyDeleteNow for the world to prosper the students of today must be understanding of the reality that they live in. It is not to scare the students and keep them in fear of living to the fullest but in the contrary it is to open up their eyes to the truth. You cannot enter a battle blind of the common goal; you cannot be in college without a high school diploma, you must be aware of life and every aspect of it in order to become of a part of it itself. Students must be conscious and understanding of reality and all its pros and cons in order to change them to the greater good. Pessimism is important but not as important as the broad picture. You cannot have one half of something and believe that you understand it completely, you must be aware of it as a whole to make a difference. Only then can you be able make a change and create a better world for the world of tomorrow.
When we discuss heavy-duty issues in the classroom, yes, there is a bit of pessimism but that only comes with realism. The issues are extremely depressing to a point where you have negative thoughts about the outcomes. Pessimism comes with complicated issues. It is only natural but it is definitely not unnecessary. Pessimism is not brought into the subject on purpose. Drastic issues cannot be avoided just because people want to avoid pessimism. If an educator does lie to their students, they are not educating them. This means they serve absolutely no purpose and are wasting the students’ time. How could the students help fix the future when they have absolutely no idea what they are in for? They need to have some sort of understanding of the issues they are going to face. I definitely agree that the teachers should start teaching their students about the global issues as soon as possible. They need to know as much as possible about the global issues. How can someone help solve a problem when they have no knowledge or understanding of the matter? You can help the outcome of the problem be a positive one with a good background. The educators should stop lying to the students in order to ‘spare’ their pessimism or whatever the case. They need to know.
ReplyDeleteTeachers should act realistic in the classroom and promote critical thinking in solving such problems that arise. Pessimism is conveyed with very complex issues and when teachers do not approve of solutions that students' have conceived. A lot of students stop trying and feel that they're ideas are not worth discussing when pessimism is shown, and that is the opposite of what should be promoted. When educators lie to their students, that is a sign of disbelief in the student and ultimately, can bring down their self-esteem and creativity in the classroom. Teachers should go out of their way to make students feel like they are capable enough to solve global issues because in the near future, they just might. I completely agree that teachers should start expanding their agendas, globally. This will create a mind-set for the students that will help them think like this always and develop skills to solve problems in a more efficient way.
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteWhen it comes time to discuss in the classroom, teachers should be able to be open about the global issues succeeding in the world at the present time and the future issues to come. Although there will always be some pessimism when doing so, this is reality. Pessimism is not something that should be avoided, that’s not going to resolve any of the issues going on in the world. Therefore, teachers need to make students aware that they are not trying to scare them or depress them with pessimism. The fact of the matter is without speaking pessimistically you will not be able to resolve or help resolve some of the leading global issues, in other words make a change, a difference, help make the world a better place. When it comes to being optimistic it can be good, depending how optimistic you are. After all, the world is not perfect so do not see it that way. Optimism is good in class discussions when it comes to putting it towards your goals and what you would like to accomplish especially if your goal is to help diminish the succeeding global issues of today. Teachers should also teach that it is good to be optimistic towards school, goals, and your ethnics and beliefs.
ReplyDeleteEven though being optimistic is the best way to bring students global awareness, there is obliviously going to be pessimistic thoughts as well. If you look at the world today and how long each problem has been going on, how can you not expect pessimism? People say “there is a solution to this global issue and it will be resolved soon”. It has been almost two years since the global economic crisis. Nothing has been done. They bring about solutions, but it is never taken into a great account. How can you not expect pessimism after two years? General society gets tired of talking about “that” same issue and “that” same solution over and over again. Society just wants it done, and fast. They all just want to be okay with the world they live in, not always being aware of our unsolved global issues.
ReplyDeleteHowever, at the same time students shouldn’t be petted like dogs and be told that the world will be fine in the end, because it won’t be. Students should be aware of what is going on around the world. They should be taking into account that the globe is a stake so they know ahead of time and not be as worried about it in the future. Imagine students today not aware of climate change, for instance. Florida can become under water in a few years, and they won’t have a clue about it. What will happen to them then? How will they know how to protect themselves? It is not easy to become an adult, but there comes a certain point during adolescence that needs to begin developing a more mature mind, and with this awareness to the global issues out there, it can bring out the inner adult in most of our young ones out there.
I completely agree with the fact that teachers should show students the realities of the world. Sure it might cause a bit of drama in the classroom or a bit of pessimism but so what? It’s better than having misinformed students who think the world is all at peace and that everyone’s friends and nobody’s dying. I believe that not only should teachers show students the realities of the world, but they should also teach about issues that should be addressed immediately in the world and why. For example, a global studies teacher should incorporate issues such as the one’s mentioned in the blog, like climate change, the female awakening, etc. They can be incorporated in almost any subject, and if done correctly, there is a very good chance that it will not cause pessimism in the classroom environment, but the contrary, it will create hope and a want to help the issue. If you teach children that the world is in a crisis and that the way that climate change is going now, the world is going to end, of course pessimism is going to be created. But, if teachers say all of this, but back it up by saying that by recycling and not letting a lot of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, global warming and climate change can be decreased or possibly stop, it will not only cause optimism, but it will also cause the students to help solve the issue or issues. Remember, children are our future. If they are taught right, then maybe we can all have a better one.
ReplyDeleteI believe that students should be taught he actuality not the sugar coated version of events. For example when teaching about colonization do not skim over the facts regarding the amount of deaths caused by the Spanish, Portuguese, and French forces. Where some people would call that encouraging pessimism I call that teaching facts. If students are unaware of the reality and live in a bubble enabled by parents and teachers when they leave the bubble and move on to adult life they will be wholly unprepared for what will be in store. We cannot have current and future generations having a less than knowledgeable education and then being unable to cope with the harshness of real life.being momentarily bummed out is nothing compared to years of tough adjustment to a world that will leave you behind and will not play catch up.
ReplyDeleteTeaching students the entire spectrum of knowledge helps them make their own decisions and infer different things .it makes them more knowledgeable thusly more competitive in the work place and teaches them the lessons that our ancestors never knew so they don’t repeat the mistakes of our pasts in the future.
-Katherine Nilsson
Indeed it is very important the approach that an educator chooses to take for the course of any curriculum, even more in a global perspectives curriculum simply because the manner in which material is presented can make the difference of whether or not the student takes interest in that particular issue. Like mentioned in this post the world of our ancestors is most definitely one that is not perfect and could have without doubt been left in a better sense of direction - however regardless of the condition we still have to cope with what we've been left with and continue to better our living conditions for the sake of our futures.
ReplyDeleteGoing back to the topic of how an educator presents the issues to his classroom is quite vital because indeed from first hand experience I know what it's like to have an approach of a teacher who is optimistic and speaks the truth, but on the other hand a teacher who thinks their students may not be able to handle the truth or capable of understanding its severity. It's not like I can say one approach is better than the other because in actuality, neither is better than the other. This leads me to my next point - that dependent on a student's personality is what shapes the approach an educator should take to gain their attention on an issue. In our world we have many different people with many different personalities and attitudes, so it's not necessarily an optimistic approach, pessimistic approach, or for that matter even a realistic approach that gets the job done ; it's a little bit of each.
To gain all of your students attention, a little bit of each different approach would most definitely preferable simply for the reason that a little bit of each balances out each approach - meaning that a student won't be taught by someone who is too happy and what not, but on the other hand won't be being taught by a teacher who speaks of the specific details of current global issues that may overwhelm a student. A teacher who can manage to equally distribute their methods and approaches to teaching will in end be most successful in enlightening their students.
Because as you said Mr. Lamas "If we do our job as educators, our students will do their job as the creators of a better world."
-Michael Pena
I personally believe that when discussing such delicate issues (nuclear prolife
ReplyDeleteration,Wars,etc.), that honestly seem unstoppable, we, as human beings, tend to create some pessimism. This is because we feel, we are not important enough to change things at a global level. However, as Global Educators we must teach our students in a positive way that will empowered them to accomplish important goals in the world just like keeping peace. We must show them both sides of the conflict as well, since that will help our students be able to be unbiased and consequently be able to solve the problems of the affected and the affecting people. This step is very important because it will also allow us to increase empathy for people since students will have to put themselves in two point of views and not just one. Eventhough this sounds very exicitng, it is almost impossible to accomplish total unbiasment because everyone will always support a certain point of view and this is a clear example that no matter what we do there is always going to be some pessimism. I say this because some people are always going to be on the side that supports being quiet and minding their own business which in another word is being pessimist. This is horrible for the world because we have people that will not do much to solve issues.
First of all, I think you need to specify what you mean by students. The reason for this is that the word student means someone who is studying in school and that could either mean a college student, high school student, or a pre-schooler that is barely learning the alphabet. It is apparent in the blog post that the word student is meant to signify one that is in secondary school or higher that are able to comprehend the complex issues but if this blog is meant to be global then it is best to be specific as possible because the English spoken by others around the world may not be up to par to the standards shown in this blog.
ReplyDeleteI believe it would be a horrible idea to force global issues on students. It would only serve to burden students(referring to teenagers and not children in primary school or adults in college) with unnecessary pressure. Not only do they have to worry about graduating school, trying to find happiness, what to do with their lives, and other issues that must be resolved before entering an adult world, now they are being told that the fate of the world is in their hands and failure to perform would result in the deaths of millions to billions of innocent bystanders. It is something that not even a fully grown adult who has experienced all the joy and sadness that may come from this constantly growing(for better or worse) world would like to bear. Also, if you force all this on students then they may be reluctant to act and if they do they will do badly because they would most likely feel like they were put into a position they never wanted and are probably going to choose the easiest and quickest path to escape the responsibility.
I’m not saying to ignore these issues but not to force it upon students. If they are interested in global issues then encourage them and explain to them concepts they may not comprehend. Studying and solving global issues is something someone must decide on their own and you cannot force it on someone who does not want to learn it. It would be great if everyone in the world chose to study and analyze these issues but this is idealistic and in a world that is constantly changing based on the choices of others or events that may catch us by surprise, you need to be realistic.
I agree upon the fact that teachers should be teaching students such heavy-duty global issues. These are the issues that everyone needs to be aware of no matter how pessimistic the problem is. It is definitely understandable the concern that some people have about allowing students to be showered in issues that might be too pessimistic, but not teaching these issues to them at all would create even more problems. Due to the fact that the students of today will be the future leaders of the world later on, it is important for them to know the reality of things. However, controlling how much exaggerated pessimism is added into these discussions about global issues could be helpful.
ReplyDeleteIt is important to be completely frank, but not too exaggerated when teaching students about such topics as these. Being global citizens, students need to start facing all that the world is confronting today. They need to be able to understand so that the world can make better decisions in the future. Being too optimistic in teaching global issues should not be done either. We have to be honest in saying whether or not we can actually solve the problem or not. However, ruining the thought of hope in a student isn’t correct either. Optimism and pessimism have to be evenly distributed in the explanation and discussions of such heavy-duty global issues. This is important because it influences what a child thinks and believes. The way these issues should be taught has to be in a realistic but well thought out explanation that allows hope, but also leaves way for the realization and reality of the problem.
Presenting what is taking place in the world right now with a realistic point of view is the most accurate way in my opinion. The pupils need to know what is going around in humanity at the time without being lied with optimistic or pessimistic ideals. Presenting a pessimistic agenda shows a lackadaisical attitude towards being a model global citizen since the world cannot be changed and we cannot do anything about it.
ReplyDeleteUnfortunately, sometimes the issue leads to pessimism since there is no way to hide the conflict. Regardless of the attempts from the teacher to be optimistic about something, it will never be the same. If the instructor is being too optimistic, then it is bad because the students will not find the world as a place full of troubles and they will not care about it. If the tutor is being too pessimistic, then it will not allow students to care about human society because they will reflect about it in a pessimistic way and they will think to themselves that the global issues present today have no cure and that we should not be worried about it. The most suitable way to look at the world and to work it out is by being realistic and never giving up the chance to change human history.
I think that it is very important for us to know the issues that are going on around the world. Hiding these things from us is not going to do any better to anyone. It is like trying to ignore the problem that is already there and not doing anything about it. If we are taught about these issues from our teachers then we get the right information and all the right facts. When we learn about these things we tend to think about them and maybe even some of us will make an effort to change this and make this better in the future. We as adults of the future should know this information to change the mistakes made from the past and make everything better and make a change. We should know what cause this to happen and how we can fix this. We should also find out both views on the issues to see how it can be dealt with so things benefit both side is some situations. Hiding things from us is not a good idea because at the end we will find out and even if we do it might not be the correct information and I think things like that should not be hidden from our generation because we want to fix things as young adults and do something for the people. This is why I think teachers should teach us about the issues going on around the world.
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteOf course teachers can not lie to students, they have to tell them the truth about what is going on in their world and their surroundings. Lying to students will not help their global awareness. Teachers have to confront students about the real world, the world they will enter sooner or later. And it is better to let them know now than by them selves. Let students have knowledge of what might happen and what is going on. Lying to students will just have them not prepared for what is coming around the corner and they will be startled with what hit them. Students need to be informed as soon as possible and the truth. Teachers have to trust students with what they have taught then and hand them the world, which students will change in the future and make it their home. Teachers have to trust students that all they have taught them will come in handy as they change the world that they live in. Of course we will all be faced with what to do and how to do it but with the help of our educators and the correct, true information students will be able to come up with a plan and change the world for the best. Giving students a global perspective from now can open their eyes to see what is in front of them and around them to change what they want for the best.
ReplyDeleteStudents will have the power in their hands and teachers have to trust that what they have taught them will come in handy when they are doing and making global solutions to a problem. With the correct information now, students can lead us to a better future and promise a global and educated world.
-Samantha Perez
I agree that students should be exposed to "heavy duty" material in the class. This is because the fact is that highschool and middleschol (the levels at which students are usually exposed to global issues) are levels that are meant to prepare students to face the world outside of the protected educational system. Once they complete their education, students are finally able to face the real world. They are considered adults under the law (at least in the US), and how can students be expected to face the world when they don't know the first thing about the issues it is facing. School along with parents should be preparing students for adulthood, which means that they should be given an education that will prepare them to face the realities and facts of the planet, which in the end could affect them (example: the female awakening, global warming, nuclear proliferation, etc). In addition we don't want to educate a workforce that is ignorant as to the things that will in the end affect them, as they are the only ones who ca. ameliorate the situation for so many global issues. So depriving them of the education that would expose them to global issues, which may bring some (in my opinion) necessary pessimism into the class, would be robbing us of the chance that we have of having these students in the future do something for the planet. In addition the reality is that shielding students does not nothing but condition them to be unconcerned about global issues in the future, which is in no way an advantage for the future of humanity.
ReplyDelete-Estefania Chavez
There is a difference between informing the uninformed and turning them into misanthropists. We do need to inform students of the world around them, but just saying "The world sucks" will lead nowhere. There have been horrible things which have happened in our history, but there have also been good things. We need to teach both sides of the story. One can't be without the other.
ReplyDeleteFor example, the story of the "First Thanksgiving" is ridiculously whitewashed. As children, we are fed this idea of a beautiful collaboration between the Pilgrims (Puritans) and the Wampanoag people. The reality is much darker. The Puritans made no secret of their desire to take their land. They had moments of shaky collaboration which fell apart quickly. There are further distortions to the story which can be found through a quick Google search.
We are not doing anybody a favor by pretending that everything was all right between the Native Americans and the colonists. We are not doing anybody a favor by minimizing the struggle of people of color both in the past and today. We are not doing anybody a favor by ignoring the crimes of our government.
However, we are also not doing anybody a favor when we ignore Mother Teresa, Martin Luther King Jr., Gandhi, and the countless others that helped make the world a better place. If we teach children that there are people doing bad things out there, we need to teach them that there are people doing good things, too.
Only by being informed and having a well-rounded perspective can we march towards a brighter tomorrow.
Our students must be informed of what is going in our reality. It is their own future that they are affecting, not only ours. They are the ones who will be assuming our roles in life and becoming the next leaders of our society. Teachers fear that this will often lead to students thinking pessimistic of the world. This is by no means true. Students in school learn to see right from wrong and in this case, realize that these issues should not be feared, they should be addressed properly knowing that the consequences our society faces or is going to face are the pessimistic ones. There is no doubt that they need to be informed of what our world has in stock for them. As the author mentions, our ancestors really haven’t done such a great job in the world we live in today. What could we expect with students ruling our world that have no clue of what is really going on. It’s a shame that our world is how it currently is but at this point, the choices are very well limited. Its either we do something about these pressing issues or let our future generations deal with it themselves. To most of the world, its to deal with it now, putting pressure as of this point across the world. What do we need to take action? Education.
ReplyDeleteEducation is the key to our success in life. Without it, we are practically only a body that takes up space in this world. If students are not educated properly in terms of to the full extent of the world’s issues, how is the world in the next 50 years going to respond to the present and upcoming situations? Education gives us a better view of the world that is vital for us to survive. Many uneducated people do not realize what is going on in the world, thinking that society revolves around their particular region and none else.
In the average classroom it can be noticed, that many of the subjects, topics mentioned in the classroom, tend to be to broad concerning global issues. They are mentioned in class as a casual conversation among the students, where the teachers usually lament and talk with a pessimistic taste about the certain issue. They briefly observe the aftermath, and contribute a minute fraction of their time concerned about it. The teachers show no hope for resolution, and don’t even bother entering the subject in further detail causing the students to self-consciously be discouraged, and blinded to a certain point where they cannot see the importance of the matter in which they face. This is rather absurd due to the mere fact that because these kids are the leaders of tomorrow, shouldn’t they be preparing for the problems they may face as citizens or leaders of this world when they are older?
ReplyDeleteOn the contrary, in the classroom, because the matter is covered up by common thought of: “time will heal”, or “that is not our problem”, students are starting to see the world in a different perspective than how they should be. Therefore, they should be introduced to the world at an appropriate yet young age. Doing so, will widen their eyes, and allow them to think beyond their horizons thus reason with a capability like no other all due to the fact that they have recognized the importance in which these matters hold on our lives. For example, the issue of global warming. Teachers are not doing enough in the classroom to stimulate the thought of species becoming extinct as a result of this catastrophic event. They paint the world as if everything will heal itself. We need to take a stand, and need to take a stand now, before it is too late and the children of tomorrow become the people of today.
-Giselle Morales
I completely agree with what was mentioned in the post. Even though global issues may contain pessimism we must still teach them to students, and make them aware of a variety of different global issues. If we want to change the future we must change the way in which we certainly do things. We have to start with the new generation they are the ones who hold the key to a better tomorrow. How do we expect to solve the issues on our planet and make it a better place if those who are to fix them aren’t equipped with the tools necessary to face these global issues?
ReplyDeleteTeaching students of global issues is a must. By informing them of the problems humanity is facing we are building the foundation for them to succeed in solving these problems. By making them aware at a young age they have a head start and an advantage over the issues they are to face. Pessimism should not detour teachers from discussing the situations that are happening. Children must understand that the world is not all fun and games. By making things seem other wise the affects and out come are much worse. When the age comes that they fully understand the complexity of the situations they are going to feel as if they have been lied upon their entire lives. It is the teacher’s responsibility to not allow such things to happen
In my opinion from a global perspective as a global citizen I am utterly satisfied with the revolutionary ideal of being realistic in class. Our top global issues right now affecting the world are being disregarded to the pessimism implanted in our students. In other words, pessimism contributes to the action from students to not care since the world’s issues have no solution. On the other hand, being too optimistic does not allow the students to realize what events are occurring in our daily life which will create a reaction from the ones being instructed to not care about the world either because everything is rosy and pink. As a global citizen from a global perspective, I agree with the ideal of being realistic because it is the right way to instruct our pupils how the world is change from bad to worse. If we keep up this ideal, then we will change the world and we will be the creator of a new society.
ReplyDeleteVittorio Valentino
Ignoring a problem does not make it any better, and it will surely not make it disappear. In confronting an issue, one does not need to look at it with a pessimistic attitude. However, the issue does need to be confronted. Not everything that is talked about in the classroom can be positive. Unfortunately, there is a plethora of negative issues taking place in the world that we have created for ourselves. So what better way to improve the world we live in than by facing the issues in the classroom head on? Now the way that the problems are approached is the key. Just because the situation may be negative, does not mean that the outlook of the teacher and students has to be negative as well. If anything, when facing negative issues, one should have an optimistic attitude to be able to correct what was done wrong. Having a negative mindset never solved anything. So yes, these issues are horrendous, but no, students should not be taught with pessimism, because if done so, they will have a negative outlook towards the issue, and therefore, not be able to come up with a solution for it.
ReplyDeleteI believe, that especially in the world we live in today, it is imperative to educate students on the real issues going on in the world. There is no use ignoring them and pretending like they are not going to affect future generations. In fact, that is why they should be brought up in the classroom. By doing so, students will learn the consequences of their actions and know not to make the same mistake twice. Additionally, they will be geared in the right direction to make an impact on the world, and for the better, not for the worse like other generations. Realism, to sum up, would be the best way to look at issues. Therefore, teachers would not pretend global issues do not exist, but they will not candy coat them to make it seem like nothing is wrong, and they will also not have a pessimistic outlook on the world. In doing so, they would prepare students to head out to the real world to face these real issues.
I believe that teachers should not ignore the issues because it will make things worse because then teachers will not prepare their students for the real world.Issues such as Haiti that are happening and are destroying peoples life's, they should be able to learn so they can help those in need.
ReplyDeleteThis will not have a negative effect on the classes because they would be learning more about their surroundings. This will help us improve the world we live in. But teachers have to careful on how they talk to their students of it because if the teachers think its a negative issue he/she might say it in a way that the students might agree or they might disagree and argue. Pessimisn should not be taught when saying the issue or expressing feelings or opinions.
By doing this students will learn a lot of things and will learn the global issues and try to make things better for the other generations.They will get the knowledge that they have from the global issues that they have been taught and they will surely make a difference and help better the world.Realism is the best way for the teachers and the students will know more about their surroundings and the classrooms will not be pessimistic but realistic. This will be the best way to look at the issue because you cannot hide the truth.
Personally, I highly agree that more than five global issues need to be regarded, maybe even 10 or 15 should be regarded, as the blogger mentioned. I found it quite exciting to brainstorm and come up with only five important global issues in the previous post. It really made me think and go more in dept into them in order to know for sure I picked the best issues. However, when we try to discuss them in class, I seem to notice that it derives ‘unnecessary pessimism’. We all have our own points of view and we deserve to, at least, express them in class without being contradicted or misunderstood. We want to build some kind of optimism for ourselves, nothing too extreme. However, in order to do that, we cannot be deprived of our basic knowledge of the world because we are ‘so young’. If we don’t learn and gain knowledge, we cannot gain power and create the technology necessary to help our world grow from the remains of our ancestors.
ReplyDeleteAmong other things, some topics discussed in class are considered ‘inappropriate’ because they become so realistic or even unrealistic that it drives us mad into debate. Sure, a healthy debate now and then is fun, but when it comes to serious topics, everyone has a different opinion. It’s a never ending war amongst ourselves that only causes pessimism. We become blinded by belief and don’t think clearly before speaking or asking a question. As future creators, we must become well-rounded and full of knowledge in order to try and solve these common issues we discuss so much in class.
-Ilsy Diaz (:
As read this post, I realized how important the topic addressed really is. When we come to think of it, the method or manner in which topics are presented really impacts the view of the audience. It is important that educators learn to differentiate the facts from opinions and project information that is not biased. Students have to be aware of the facts without alteration or exaggeration so that they can be aware of reality.
ReplyDeleteUsually when we address topics we tend to take sides and attach personal outlooks to what we’re talking about. Therefore, we have to be extremely careful when we are transmitting information to recent generations. We don’t want to inflate the seriousness of the issue and add negativity when it is not needed, yet we have to confront reality. When presenting data about less fortunate regions it is undoubtedly hard to ignore the misery and gloom, yet we can emphasize that there are solutions to the issues and if we work together we might be able to alleviate further consequences.
On the other hand, extreme optimism is also a malicious quality that educators must avoid. We are aware that if we stay positive we can achieve greater goals and allow ourselves to come up with solutions to some of our global issues, nevertheless having excessive optimism can create a cloud between what is achievable and what is simply idealistic.
To avoid these alterations in education, we must all avoid falling either states of mind and provide the best knowledge about our society by being realistic and rational.
As an individual grows through time, he or she is slowly accepting reality. For instance, yes, when you grow up, you will have a job like mommy and/or daddy. Yes, you will pay taxes and you will die. And yes, Santa Clause, the Easter Bunny, and the Tooth Fairy do not exist. All of these are ideas that get into the mind of a molding brain, which is the brain of a student.
ReplyDeleteWhen the question "Don't we create unnecessary pessimism when we discuss such heavy-duty global issues in the classroom?" arises, we can’t help but think, then what or better yet how must a teacher teach his or her students? The world is rough. This is something that needs to be in the mind of a student as soon as possible so that student can begin thinking as a mature contributor to society. By sugar coating things and putting sprinkles on top of critical issues that are surrounding Earth such as climate change, poverty and disease and over-consumption, a student will never be able to know the full importance of these topics.
Let’s use an example (Climate Change) and put it in the predicted wording that a teacher would use being pessimistic, realistic, and optimistic.
Pessimistic: “Unfortunately it is too late to try to achieve anything in helping the planet. The lack of attention in the previous decades makes it impossible to end the dangers that will come. “
Realistic: “There are many things at risk regarding the climate crisis. Although it may be extremely hard, it is not impossible that there could be a solution.”
Optimistic: “There are many organizations as well as changes occurring today to fix this climate crisis. It will soon be coming to an end.”
As you can see, the tones and the way things are being said vary amongst the three, and can affect the way a student learns. It is necessary for a teacher to be realistic when teaching a student. It is also necessary for a teacher to be honest and neither put a downer on unappealing situations or paint it and make it better. Unfortunately, not everything in life is good, but if students grasp the idea now that life is not a utopia, then in the future the impact of the “real world” will not be as intense.
-Katherine Dagand
Education is the process by which our mind develops through format learning at an Institution like a school, college, or university. It is mental and intellectual training which provides opportunities of growth and helps to overcome obstacles to progress. Therefore, It is often compared to light which removes the darkness of ignorance and helps us distinguish between right and wrong.
ReplyDeleteI just stumbled upon this blog and have enjoyed reading the post and the comments. The discussion has me wondering about adult global education - how do we provide adult education that is on-going, objective, and change-drive? I appreciate the comments about secondary and undergraduate education, but shouldn't we be promoting life-long learning about the globe and our place in it?
ReplyDeleteA partial reply to "Anonymous" re. his/her comment on 11/12:
ReplyDeleteAbsolutely. We--our society, our nation, our species--should provide ongoing life-long learning about critical global issues that affect our personal, national, and global existence. One problem is that we lack the adult institutions (the equivalent of schools, colleges,etc.) to facilitate this ongoing process.
So, the question is, How do we do it? How do we get the attention and spark the interest of adults past the formal educational stage, to read and think about global issues? Some would say that this is the job of the media. They could be part of the answer, but the media doesn't appear to be doing the job.
I intend to publish some things for the general adult market, assuming I get an interested publisher. Beyond that, I would be interested in hearing your suggestions about how we can reach the adult population.
Thanks for your input.