Misconceptions

In one of our classes, we covered the issue of Misconceptions. Children carry misconceptions through their childhood into adulthood. These conceptions could be about concepts or beliefs. Along this line, there are misconceptions that the public has about the teaching profession. They think that we have shorter working hours, more time off for holidays, and very little pressure.

Being a teacher in training, I have to oppose to that view strongly, and I wonder if I have any ability at all to correct that misconception. There are so many tasks and responsibilties that teachers take up for the love of the children. WE play so many roles in school. The preparation for lessons also take up a lot of time as we always try our best to source for materials and think of strategies to make learning fun for children, because that is the best way of learning for children. While doing so, teachers have to constantly upgrade their knowledge through in-service courses and reading so that we can add more value to the children's journey of discovery.

All these take time and we are so stretched to the edge. Yet, people say that we are the ones with the 'best' job around. It hurts and it irks to hear such comments, especially when they come from the people closest to you. It simply seems like they do not respect you and what you do at all. I am very upset because the comments came from him and this is not the first time. With all the deadlines and work to be done, all I wish for are words of comfort and encouragement. Yet, what I get from him are accusations and ignorant remarks despite all the explanations I have made earlier.

My 'irrational' self is talking now. Emotions have taken over me. I should learn to see things from their points of view too. Afterall, when you do not experience something, you can never really understand what it is like. Perhaps time will heal my fragile heart of love for the children......