1. Sommers opens the conversation on talking about revision and what terms can be used to describe this process. I have to admit a bias here because in the case of talking about prior knowledge or "remix," I feel that updating terms and approaching these topics with a creative touch can be very helpful. But, I wonder isn't it more helpful in the case of composition to introduce our students to the specific terms that the academy uses to describe this process? As a student, they are going to experience the term revision and its expectations in form settings, not just in the classroom, but in the writing center.
2. I found Inoue's speech to be very interesting in term of discussing racism in educational institutions. I can't help but see intersection with the work of other scholars who talk about how racism is an ideology that isn't necessary dead, but evolved. I can recognize that the subject can be an uncomfortable one because how can we bring up the topic in the setting where everyone involved has the best intentions at heart in the case of being educators. My main question is how can we start this conversation thoughtful? With full respect to our diverse community of professionals? If we are trying to expand worldview what might be some key access points or practices that we can use not just in the classroom but in everyday life.
In regards to the first question, I definitely do see the benefit in teaching writing vocabulary. And I think this can be done on the first day to establish a sort of conversation. And they can use these definitions and rework them as the semester goes along. They can constantly analyze these words and what they mean in conjunction with their writing.
ReplyDeleteI think that there are multiple ways that we can approach racism in language and in writing programs within our classroom. There are simple steps that we can take like diversifying the readings. By showing the students that we find value in different types of scholars from different backgrounds, we're already setting a precedent for the class that there is not just one right voice.