Sinek’s theory of The Golden Circle is that people are attracted to the “why” over the “what”. People are attracted to beliefs that align with their own, and they care more about this than “what” a product is.
I think there are many connections that can be made between this theory and teaching and learning. In order for students to “buy in” they need to believe in their teacher, they need to trust their teacher. Students need to believe in why they are learning and what they are learning. I think this really means they need to find content meaningful delivered by a teacher they love and trust in order to buy into the “why”.
Something that Sinek said that really resonated with me was that “...there are leaders and there are those who lead. Leaders hold a position of power or authority, but those who lead inspire us… We follow those who lead, not because we have to, but because we want to.” I think one of my strengths as a teacher is that I am a trustworthy leader that does not at all act authoritative. Students learn quickly that my every intention is to support students in not just their education but anything I can help them with in their personal life. They know I love and respect them. I talk about things in life that are important - respecting women and social justice for example - and I talk about them passionately. They know I want what is best for them and their families, and this they can show up for and believe in. They come to me with their very personal problems and lived experiences, and trust that I will support them and give them advice.
WHY am I a teacher? Because I have a passion for helping and educating, working together with and learning from the vulnerable and disadvantaged. I am inspired by the success of my students! I communicate this to them very clearly, and I think this is why they trust me and lean on me for support.
Your students are very lucky to have you Nick. I share your belief that connections matter to student learning. It is so important for our students to know that we advocate for them and care for them on a personal level.
ReplyDeleteEileen
Rogers is lucky to have you Nick! I know all of your students are very appreciative of you. I agree that as teachers we need to convey our "why" to the students, and I think that especially speaks to math classes. I feel that so many times students don't know why they are learning the content, therefore they may give up more easily. Hopefully we can bring some more of that "why" into the math department at Rogers.
ReplyDeleteNick,
ReplyDeleteI am also a believer of making connections and showing you care about them not only as a student learner but as an individual. You can totally see a difference in students when they know you are vested in them. You can also tell when a teacher is not a believer. I'm going to continue to model my "WHY" to possibly influence those non-believers!
Great points. I am glad this resonated with you!
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