Purpose, Empathy and Awareness

So, as I look back at my journey throughout Arabic and world language teaching in general, moving forward I'm filled with both excitement....and dread; The most exciting part of this work for me is getting to influence the manner in which my students relate to Arabic and Arab culture. I am not just instructing content, I help students to develop their communication skills — to think critically and have new tools engage with the world.

What excites me the most about moving forward as a teacher?

I’m helping students learn how to express themselves in another language, how to understand different perspectives. Watching my students gain confidence in these areas is incredibly rewarding. It’s not just about mastering content; it’s about mastering skills like communication, problem-solving, and cultural understanding. These are the tools that will help them thrive, not just in their studies but in life, teaching a language like Arabic allows me to open a window into a rich culture, full of traditions, values, and perspectives that can broaden my students’ worldview.

How can I lead with empathy?

Leading with empathy is essential for me as a teacher. I’ve learned from reading and reflecting on how empathy helps create a supportive, inclusive classroom. It allows me to look past a student’s behavior or performance and consider what’s going on in their life. Instead of asking, What’s wrong with them? Maybe they’re facing difficulties at home, or maybe the lesson just isn’t clicking for them, students need to feel comfortable trying to speak, even when they’re unsure if they’ll get it right. By showing empathy, I can help create an environment where mistakes are just part of learning, and they know I’m here to support them.

How can I be aware of my biases?

Being aware of my biases is something I need to keep working on. Reflecting on my assumptions and teaching practices regularly is key. reflecting to see if I’m indirectly reinforcing stereotypes or limiting my students’ potential. Recording my lessons and looking back at specific interactions can help with that

One bias I try to be mindful of is expecting all my students to connect with Arabic culture in the same way. Just because a student shares a cultural background doesn’t mean they’ll engage with it like I do. I need to stay open to their unique experiences and interests, even when they differ from my own.

In the end, I want to be the kind of teacher who empowers students to develop skills that will serve them beyond my classroom. My goal is to lead with empathy, self-awareness, and reflection.