This week, we took part in a very interesting task within the values module. We were split into 4 groups, each given an envelope of materials. We were instructed to make a useful resource for a student’s first day at university.

When we opened our envelope, we were puzzled due to the limitation. Our team had constructed a map of the Dalhousie building from paper clips, sticky notes, pencil and blue tac. When we looked around, we observed other teams and realised that some had coloured paper. We assumed that either the other teams used products out with their pack or they were given additional resources. We were then judged on a scale of 10, our team scoring 3 out of 10. We all took it light heartedly however the lesson learnt was an eye opener.

As teachers, it is vital to understand the inequalities amongst the children you are teaching. When you are praising one child for their effort, the child sitting beside them may have the skills but cannot put them into practice due to the lack of assistance they receive at home. We can sometimes be very quick to judge and ‘assume’ children have the resources they need to complete their homework. On multiple occasions I have seen during Christmas time, children take part in a competition where the ‘best looking’ Santa receives a prize. However, there are children who may wish to put their creative mind into practice but may have no resources at home or their parents may be too busy in their work that they put together a simple piece. Those disadvantaged children may look up to the advantaged child and feel discouraged and isolated as they are praised. This in fact increases the gap of inequalities rather than reducing it. As future teachers, it is important to realise that children should always be encouraged to do their best and never feel like there is a barrier preventing them to accomplish their goals.

When I thought about this lesson, I was really inspired by it. Our team received the least points despite our efforts of working together and taking time to figure out what to make. Yet, because the winning team had more resources they were able to construct their piece more quickly. Of course, we felt a little disappointed because we tried our best with what we had. I am extremely privileged to have gone to school, college and university. Not every child has equal opportunities from the beginning but as teachers, we can create an equal learning environment.