Sometimes in education, it’s gratifying to hear an expert provide evidence as to why your current practice is ideal. It rids a teacher of responsibility from having to try anything new.

In other instances, educators will be told something that sounds good and without any further research, be on board. 

In both cases, the two will find as many sources as possible that speak the same message, thereby creating an an endless feedback loop. Unfortunately, neither of those two approaches challenge one to master their craft.

There is always something new to learn and sometimes current practices are ideal, but something new needs to be learned about the students (the world in which they live) and the periphery (the world outside the classroom).

Listening to other perspectives is paramount for any type of growth. It does not necessarily mean minds or hearts will be changed, but it will force a more critical self-reflection.

It’s not about hearing what you want, but rather what you need.