S5 Ethics, Civic Engagement and Use of Selves in the Classroom

Presenters

Bibiana Koh, Social Work

Abstract

Use of selves is an abstract concept that is used in clinical social work to understand the therapeutic relationship. In this context, consciously or unconsciously we use our “selves” in the service of maximizing the therapeutic relationship to advance our clinical goals (Koh & Boisen, 2019). This important concept is equally applicable to the classroom: ideally, we use our pedagogical “selves” to build student rapport, to advance learning outcomes, and to create an inclusive classroom. With political and civic engagement, our ethical use of selves in the classroom becomes more complex – particularly during such politically polarizing times.

In this interactive workshop, considerations in our ethical use of selves in a civically engaged classroom will be explored. As educators, how can we balance utilitarian aims with pedagogical ones? How do we account for ethnicity, culture, and power? How can we use critical reflexivity (Ng, Wright, & Kuper, 2019) to inform our use of selves in the classroom? Research from Hess and McAvoy (2015) on “the political classroom” and case examples will help frame the discussion.

Session Recording

Video recording will be here soon.