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Is not knowing OK?

Jon Kabat-Zinn claims in his book that not knowing is OK. He said we never want to admit we don't know because we don't want to look foolish and that we have been conditioned to think this way. This reminded me of Sir Ken Robinson's argument on how children are taught that being wrong or making mistakes is wrong even though it's part of human nature. He also claimed that even scientists have claimed that they don't know, which is what pushes them to move forward and find answers.

As a teacher, I know I can't know everything. Which right now terrifies me, because I don't want to be wrong or make a mistake. If I were making the mistake with myself that would be fine, but if I make a mistake in class then I would be failing my students! I really hope that doesn't happen in class, but deep down I know eventually will. No one can avoide mistakes forever, and I guess I have to make my peace with that.

Hopefully, I will have established an enviornment in class that's supportive and encouraging so that no matter who makes a mistake, may it be me or one of the students, we encourage each other to get back onto our feet and try again. Because after all, not knowing or making mistakes is part of human nature.

Comments

  1. AnonymousApril 1, 2018 at 8:15 AM

    I love how you refer back to Ken Robinson's talk because it is totally relatable! I also enjoy the part where you talk about the fear of being wrong in the classroom as a teacher. This is a huge fear that I possess as well because there is nothing worse than losing the trust of your teachers word in a classroom. It breaks your vulnerability completely!
    Thanks for sharing! (-:

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