Leading Change/Understanding Change
Maria Pallotta-Chiarolli
Dr Pallotta-Chiarollis is a well know Health academic specialising in issues of sexuality. She draws our attention to the changing Australian classroom that in itself is becoming globalised. She states that teachers must acknowledge this diversity and that we should embrace change as so much is positive. Must not fall for media’s negativities.
She points out that classes today contain Anglo students, Africans. Asians and our own Indigenous peoples etc as well as gay, bisexual and transsexual students. Classes contain students who are Jewish, Islamic and Christian etc. She explains the problems associated with being gay, Moslem and a teenager who finds himself, suddenly homeless and denied his faith!!
The task English teachers face is connecting this disparate group and bringing the margins into the centre. Does this determine texts studied? Use the students to explore cultures?
Chances are as our students go global that are not going to meet white Anglos
1 response so far ↓
1
Mr. Lynch
// Apr 2, 2009 at 6:53 pm
Very interesting. I would like to read more in regards to what Maria Pallotta-Chiaroll has to say. Things are indeed changing, but I must say I think it is refreshing and encouraging to see that students are also becoming more accepting of their peers. Issues that are discussed in relation to sexuality, religion etc. are far more readily acceptable and out in the open compared to 10 years ago. I hope things keep moving forward in this regard, here’s to a more positive and open future for schools!
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