EPC-4: Understanding Self - Detailed Notes
UNIT - I: REFLECTING ON 'SELF'
1. Situating 'Self' in Society:
- Self as a social construct, influenced by family, community, and society.
- Multiple Identities: Gender (roles and expectations), Relational (roles like daughter, friend), Cultural
(influence of norms, traditions).
2. Understanding Personal Beliefs, Stereotypes, and Prejudices:
- Beliefs are formed through upbringing and experiences.
- Stereotypes: Oversimplified ideas (e.g., "all boys are stronger than girls").
- Prejudices: Judging others based on stereotypes, which can hinder fair teaching.
3. Socialization and Self-Formation:
- Socialization: Internalizing societal values.
- Primary: Family, early life.
- Secondary: School, peers, media.
- Teachers must understand how their experiences shape teaching styles.
4. Awareness of Shifting Identities:
- Identity changes as student, adult, and student-teacher.
- Affects classroom roles and relationships.
5. Reflection on Aspirations and Becoming a Teacher:
- Aspirations: Motivations like social service, subject love.
- Transformation to teacher: Requires ethics, empathy, self-reflection.
- Tools: Journals, self-assessments, feedback.
UNIT - II: UNDERSTANDING TEACHERS' IDENTITY
EPC-4: Understanding Self - Detailed Notes
1. Contemporary Status and Debates:
- Role changed from knowledge giver to facilitator.
- Debates about teacher's role and accountability.
2. Notion of the 'Ideal' Teacher:
- Expected traits: Compassion, ethics, knowledge, innovation.
- Viewed as a moral guide and nation builder.
3. Transition in Indian Scenario:
- From 'Guru' (spiritual authority) to Professional (trained and accountable).
- Modern expectations: Training, responsibility.
4. Factors Affecting Identity:
- Socio-cultural, political, and economic factors influence teacher motivation and role.
5. Theoretical Perspectives:
- Constructivist: Identity through interaction.
- Critical Theory: Encourages reflection on justice.
- Postmodern: Identity is fluid and evolving.
6. Case Narratives:
- Real-life stories offer insight into teaching experiences and identity growth.
7. Professional Ethics:
- Values: Integrity, honesty, fairness.
- Respect student rights and privacy.
8. Teacher's Autonomy:
- Freedom to decide teaching methods and assessment.
- Important for student-centric education.
EPC-4: Understanding Self - Detailed Notes
9. Developing as a Teacher:
- Teacher education programs build knowledge and skills.
- Emphasis on continuous professional development (CPD).