Compass/Dispatcher
The first metaphor below, a compass, I feel applies to most teachers. The second metaphor applies to teachers who typically work with more resilient/vulnerable populations.
1) Teachers are like compasses. A compass guides a student in the right direction when learning a new idea/concept/theory. A compass cannot force anyone to move in a particular direction, but it gives a person the information they need to reach their destination. I often view teachers – especially at the college level – as facilitators which again as there to guide, not enforce.
2) Teachers are also like 911 dispatchers. A dispatcher is your very first resource a person reaches out to when in need. They listen to what you need, coach you through the necessary steps, and they will send you more help/resources. Teachers are often presented with problems/issues that need to be triaged and dealt with immediately that will ultimately help students’ overall wellbeing.
Tweet