Idea 1

Classroom As Microcosm

One helpful way to look at your classroom is as a microcosm of our nation itself. [Of course only selected aspects of the metaphorical comparison will apply.]

Elaboration

When defining a microcosm, a dictionary will typically use either or both of these phrases—"little world;" "miniature universe"—because a microcosm is something that is regarded as a miniature or epitome of some larger entity. At times, it will be useful to think of yourself and your students as the "citizenry" of a miniature "nation" that is your classroom.

The classroom's small world is not the epitome of the nation itself of course (after all, it has you in charge). However, for that very reason, it helps to think of it as such. Given that you are the teacher, you have great influence and considerable ability to shape the classroom ("your little nation") toward ends that you choose.

Sometimes in your classroom, we'd bet your desires are fully sovereign. The rest of your "citizenry" has no real voice or vote. At at other times, though, we suspect you may be but "one of the gang," as everyone decides together by compromise and consensus.

Most teachers have considerable liberty throughout this range from "dictator to "equal".

Most teachers may, if they so desire, shape aspects of their classroom microcosm to acknowledge broad national realities and in some ways better mesh what goes on there with our nation's best ideals.

The classroom is a place to transmit (and model, to the extent you can) those highest ideals. You can have high expectations for your students. You are, after all, engaged in shaping these youngsters into the citizens of the future.

In a conducive atmosphere you establish, you can establish a firm expectation that the youngsters will be respectful of each person's individuality of conscience—their classmates', and yours. With your guidance, then, the "citizens" of this microcosm will learn to respect their classmates' freedom to hold to personal worldviews/ultimate beliefs. This will be important learning for them. It is important learning, too, for the future (if we Americans are to preserve and maintain this important freedom for all, that is).

GLOSSARY TERM: microcosm

Idea 2 "E Pluribus Unum"

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Last updated 8/18/2006

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