To Teach, To Learn
an article by Sarah Bilson

To open a young child’s mind to greater horizons is an irreplaceable feat. As an intern with the United Nations Association in San Diego, I teach fifth graders for an hour and a half class each week about the work of the United Nations, its history, and thus the promotion of world peace. As the students walk into my class at the UNA each week, I look around with curiosity as to where this class stands on the scale of learning. The classes at the UNA are unique in this sense, in that we having students of ranging education, not the same class everyday. In fact, the classes are quite contrasting: some will know all seven continents, and some will not know what a continent is. However, all leave knowing.

The satisfaction I feel in seeing a child learn so quickly is incredible, only because I recognize the importance of international knowledge such as geography, languages, and politics. These children are presented with a fortunate opportunity, and what is most valuable is their recognition and enthusiasm. There has yet to be a class uninterested in what is presented to them.

It is imperative to stimulate a child’s curiosity in global affairs at a young age, so as to ensure they understand the importance of international knowledge, communication, and cooperation. These are values I try to demonstrate in my class, and I am confident the children receive them. Through my constant effort to make these attributes apparent, they have become more prominent in my own daily thoughts: helping me learn from my teaching. I find great satisfaction at the end of class when children say goodbye in Arabic or thank you in Chinese, or walk up to the map and point out each continent. I know they have grasped an understanding of the value of international knowledge, and this will be a small stepping-stone in achieving better things.

DISCUSSION

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Dialogue in schools about war and peace issues
What are the needs and limits?

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SCHOOLS AND PEACE EDUCATION

Latest reader comment:

In response to the article, High School Intifada, readers have expressed a unanimous opinion that the freedom of speech and assembly are guaranteed by the Constitution in this country. Comments also allude to the fact that despite individual or bureaucratic policies, activism, when done in a peaceful and non-violent manner can promote consciousness and dialogue.

The comments also point out the importance of objective and forward thinking teaching policies, and respect for young people and their opinions. In other words, an environment for exchange of thought and ideas must be provided to students and emulated by teachers.

This report was posted on April 20, 2007. The moderator is Carrie Gillespie.

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