1. On pages 80 and 81 of "Teaching a Composition Class", Lad Tobin discusses the idea of authority. "thrill" of both teaching and learning is found in the way that power dynamic works. He says that it is impossible to reject the idea of authority entirely and admits that there is something enjoyable about having this power. Most of our readings, however, have been wary of the idea of a teacher as an absolute authority figure in the classroom. Is there a proper balance of authority and autonomy that a teacher should strive for? Does it depend on the context of the class? How would a teacher find this balance?
2. Yancey compares the rise of new genres in the digital age to the proliferation of the 19th century novel in that the novel brought about new audiences, new ways of consuming information, and new social structures. Are there any ways in which this modern technological expansion differs from the novel metaphor that Yancey gives us? Also, are there any other big shifts in literature and literacy that might also work as a metaphor in this instance?
Hi Nicholas,
ReplyDeleteIn response to your Tobin question I would have to say that it is up to the individual instructor to determine what power dynamic is best suited for their class. Factors that may influence such a decision may be the personalities of the students, how willing students are to interact, personal preference, and the need of the tasks and goals of the course. No matter the setting a power balance will always be present within a classroom, especially since the instructor is meant to grade their students. This characteristic of the job makes it difficult to create an equal footing for instructor and students in regard to the overall power dynamic of the class. In order to find this balance I would assume that the teacher would need to be receptive of their students and the goals of the course. They should also keep in mind their own limitations and strengths when considering their teaching style. The power dynamic will most likely vary as long as context and contributing factors are also in flux from class to class.