Chapter 10. Ink splash

Chapter 10. Ink splash

       Students come in various different sizes, shapes, colors, and preferences. Once one enters a classroom, one can't expect to find a group of people with perfectly homogenous values, beliefs, and opinions, because the same way they will vary in size, colors, or preferences, they will also differ in mindsets. That comes with disparities in backgrounds, upbringings, identities, and cultures.

   Therefore, it's predictable that some matters and opinions might trigger someone's way of thinking, particularly cultural or religious beliefs – as it's natural to happen with all human beings. Still, the question is: how to deal with such issues in a classroom full of young, opinionative students? Should there be a restriction of covered topics in class, to avoid offending anyone, or should they be addressed and the kids' opinions validated?

        It is, in fact, true that it can be challenging to deal with differing views among learners, especially if it's about sensitive topics. However, it is crucial to do so, even if it involves addressing controversial or taboo matters. Fostering a healthy and free environment, where everyone feels like they can share their thoughts freely, is essential in a school environment. Thus, teachers must focus on setting clear rules for the discussions, promoting mutual respect and compassion towards others' ideas. Regarding this, some sources add that it's important to stay in agreement with the learners' parents whenever controversial issues are soon to be covered, stating that schools should keep an open dialogue "with students and parents to ensure specific issues are handled fairly and with appropriate methods" (Addressing Controversial Issues, n.d.). Regardless of this view, I disagree this is necessary for 3rd Cycle and Secondary students. Despite having access to documents like Aprendizagens Essenciais (2018), where they can check what their children are learning in school, they can't fully know about the methodologies being used; and they would probably disagree with several approaches. Yet, no one asks for permission to teach a provided topic in a certain manner. So, why would that be the case with sensitive subjects? Students can only benefit from getting involved in enriching debates and sharing their views, not only in school but also in society in general. Additionally, if teachers waited for every parent's approval to teach each topic, schools would not be able to function smoothly.

        So, why should EFL teachers prompt open and healthy discussions like these in their classes? Because language is inherently connected to culture (Kramsch, 1998). If teachers want to educate students on a specific language, they will also have to cover cultural matters, such as beliefs, traditions, and differences, if compared to other cultures. Having a good understanding of Otherness also serves as a good mechanism to foster empathy and develop intercultural competence, aside from enabling them to create more meaningful conversations and connections with people from all around the globe.

        After reflecting upon this subject, I'm certain that, after becoming a teacher, developing these conversations with my students will be a key element to making the most of the classes and providing a successful and fulfilling learning experience for them.

References

• Addressing controversial issues. (n.d.). Democratic Schools for All. https://www.coe.int/en/web/campaign-free-to-speak-safe-to-learn/addressing-controversial-issues
• Kramsch, C. (1998). Language and culture. Oxford University Press.
• ME. (2018). Aprendizagens Essenciais para o Inglês no ES.