One of the biggest tensions I have with composition is the idea of “what the hell are we supposed to teach?” I’ve had numerous thoughts throughout the course.
- “We’re TEACHING STUDENTS HOW TO ENGAGE IN CRITICAL THOUGHT!” …Too disrespectful for the student. Assumes they don’t know how to think.
- “We’re like DRIVING INSTRUCTORS, teaching them how to OPERATE A TOOL!” …That implies that… well. Either writing is a technology we need to teach people how to operate (true), or that thinking is a tool we need to teach people how to operate (…t-true?)
But then I had a thought: What if I’m more like some sort of fitness coach teaching people how to flex their brains? Or… a drill instructor? Or…
…Really, the best thing I’ve been able to be is “the guy who helps you pass this state required course”.
Which is SO DEPRESSING.
Really… the only success I’ve felt. The metaphorical Pedagasm.
…Pedagasm is not a word I should use. Forget I said that.
THE REALLY GOOD MOMENTS, were when I inspired a moment of awe in the students. Teaching them about Engfish. Showing them how to play with Grammar to change the meaning of sentences. Making them laugh. It’s nice, but…
is that… what the University really wants? Or do they just want me to ascertain basic literacy?