1 Takeaway from Let's Talk about Power by

Razma + Jamie

2025-09-11 17:52:01 UTC

Teachers often communicate power not just through what they say, but through what they avoid saying and the impressions they give off.

Eiman & Lina

2025-09-11 17:52:30 UTC

One take away that we had from the article was that teachers need to have the ability to self-reflect on their own teaching methods and adjust them when necessary. I think it is important for us as educators to not let our power dynamics influence the way we interact with students in order to ensure that students feel heard.

Isabella V & Valentina G

2025-09-11 17:53:32 UTC

-Understanding how individuals in the classroom may perceive you impacts your ability to influence others

-Appearance matters to students judging a teacher’s competency and approachability

Austin & Kee-Kee

2025-09-11 17:53:43 UTC

Our initial reaction shouldn't be our final reaction.

Alyssa F. and Victoria D.

2025-09-11 17:54:09 UTC

The use of referent relational power and how big of an impact it has on the students and the classroom environment. Connecting, empathizing, and identifying our own mistakes allows us to be open and approachable educators. Learning from our students is what creates a power balance within the classroom.

Annie + Matthew

2025-09-11 17:54:32 UTC

As teachers because we are in positions of power, it's our responsibility to tell them how we are feeling and in return want their understanding. Communication is everything!

Shevon & Ashlyn

2025-09-11 17:54:46 UTC

A key takeaway from "Let's Talk about Power" for us was the central point that as educators it is important that we know the impact of our roles. That said it is important to know when to use our power, when to sit back, and when to adjust our positionality and power.

Eakamjit & Jesse

2025-09-11 17:55:05 UTC

Our natural mannerisms may be misinterpreted in a way we are not trying to project. Its important to establish a connection with the students so they know you better.

Ashley + Jocelyn

2025-09-11 17:55:16 UTC

One takeaway we had about the article is that there are many aspects to how ideas are communicated. It is not just about what you say but how you say it and understanding the different perspectives of those around you. Something that has been repeated a lot in these courses is that there are always new things to learn. By taking those into considerations, anyone can become a better communicator, problem solver, and teacher./

Neil

2025-09-11 17:55:42 UTC

I was really interested to dive further into discussions of how we use rewards as a form of power. I wish that the article made clear distinction between giving marks/encouragement, etc. versus rewards that promote extrinsic motivation, like prize jars, class points, "earning" free time, etc.

Sam and Dylan - Power

2025-09-11 17:56:15 UTC

Sam - Enjoyed learning the differences between the forms of power. What we traditionally see as power in the class, should be changed. Prosocial should be used more.

Dylan - Teachers are still working on finding how power plays a role in the classroom. Its a growing field of study and practice. How can I better facilitate for my students. How can I demonstrate I am working on my power, shows a a level of respect within the classroom.

Kausa + Jessica

2025-09-11 17:56:24 UTC

Recognising the power dynamic is important to empathising with students' feelings, when you do self reflection you can have more open conversations with the students.

Melanie + Fabiana

2025-09-11 17:56:29 UTC

It is important that teachers show vulnerability and that they are human too! This can be achieved by acknowledging mistakes in class and giving students the opportunity to relate to them. Building connections is important, and stating our intentions can clear up misrepresentations and assumptions your students may have.

Brianna and Joanna

2025-09-11 17:56:44 UTC

Leslie's Story resonated with us because it was a great example that showed that teachers are able to make mistakes because they are still human, what matters is how they acknowledge it and adjust their approach.

Laura O. & Kaitlyn C.

2025-09-11 17:57:16 UTC

Our key takeaway is to recognize the importance of open communication with students and listen to their feedback. This is important because it prevents miscommunication and allows for a more collaborative classroom environment. Students will feel like their voices are being heard and teachers will be able to tailor their material/teaching style to align with this feedback.

Jessica Todd + Harjot

2025-09-11 17:59:13 UTC

One key takeaway from the article is the importance to share the power in the classroom and create a community dynamic. Everyone should feel a sense of belonging and it should be a safe space where everyone can share their thoughts. As educators, we can also reflect on our own privileges and positionality.

Priya & Aruschga

2025-09-11 18:00:26 UTC

Educators cannot create safe spaces when their practices are inherently unsafe, so it is important to check how our presence as educators, shapes students’ experiences of fairness and care within educational spaces

Peony & Jathavi

2025-09-11 18:00:38 UTC

Our key takeaway from the article is the idea that power is not simply about who has authority, but how it is exercised and in whose interest. The author emphasizes that power exists in all relationships, whether in classrooms, workplaces, or communities, and that it can be used either to dominate or to empower. We found this especially relevant as a future educator because the classroom is one of the clearest examples of an environment where power is present, yet it is not always openly acknowledged.

Catherine Elia

2025-09-11 18:01:21 UTC

Teachers hold power in the classroom not only through their words but also through silence, appearance, and natural mannerisms, all of which shape how students perceive them. Because of this, educators must regularly reflect on their teaching practices, adapt when needed, and remain aware of the power dynamics at play. Communication, empathy, and openness are essential for building trust and ensuring students feel heard and understood. By acknowledging their influence and showing approachability, teachers can create positive, supportive learning environments where students feel valued and engaged

Nicholas & Claudia

2025-09-11 18:01:26 UTC

we felt that as teachers we have to have a balance between maintaining authority as well as ensuring students have a voice in the classroom they feel heard.

Leticia & Shalini

2025-09-11 18:03:11 UTC

We found all the teaching power styles very informative and when reflecting, felt they were all important - even the ones that seemed negative - because discipline and rules are also expected in a classroom and students would look to the teacher for these along with the other styles as well. Having a balance is important to be a well-rounded teacher, and create a safe space for students to learn in.

Natalie

2025-09-12 03:02:36 UTC

One line that summarizes the text well was “Understanding power use in the classroom is essential to setting up positive, prosocial learning environments and avoid abusing (or the perception of abusing) teacher power.”

Teachers need to identify within their classrooms that they hold a power in balance. We need to remember to use that power in ethical and positive ways. We should also try and give our students opportunities to hold power of their own for example, classroom duties/jobs.

Myra

2025-09-15 22:01:43 UTC

What spoke to me most in this article was the way it broke down the concept of power beyond the traditional idea of dominance or authority. I was especially struck by the section that connected power to oppression, showing how systems are designed to privilege some groups while marginalizing others.