Surprises
I like to think that life is best lived for the surprises, and my summer in Mauritius has so far been no exception. My only guarantee here is that there are no guarantees. Just one rule exists: things are most likely to change when you think you’ve got it all figured out.
For all the unpleasant shocks, however, I was satisfyingly surprised today. This afternoon marked the beginning of my journalism class’ main phase, where the students will learn to write articles substantial enough to be included in our weekly newspaper. As a leader and a teacher, I was slow getting off the ground; my students seemed disengaged and reluctant during the first few days. But, for whatever reason, they truly came alive today. I was left speechless after they each presented their selected article topics. I had been expecting topics typical for the average high school student: sports, music, video games. Instead, I listened to pitches about domestic violence, youth unemployment, child labor, and online bullying.
I had assumed that because they spoke English as second language, they would be unwilling to think outside the box or grapple with uncomfortable topics. But you know what they say about assuming… The point is, I was completely wrong. These are the most intelligent, capable, creative students I have met so far in Mauritius. They are hungry to understand and improve—the true mark of excellent learners and, in my opinion, excellent people. And in turn, they motivate me. I have not felt this way in a long time, and it’s all thanks to the incredible people who show up everyday and put up with my talking.
Let’s just say I’m looking forward to the surprises they have in store for me.
Dear Lindsay,
As a language teacher, I understand your initial fears and apprehension seeing the students’ detachment and reluctance. I have been teaching both students who use English as a First language and those who use it as a second language. Irrespective of the group of students I have had, each time I gave a writing task which required the students to go beyond their comfort zone (what they were used to as a result of traditional language teaching), they looked completely lost and the only thing that came to my mind, and to theirs too, apparently, was, ‘Oh God, It’s going to be a complete disaster. It’s a mess. Beyond any understanding.’ I can’t imagine the number of times I have felt that way. But, like you, I was totally wrong. And so were they.
Somehow, each time they hand in their work, after struggling with the themes they have chosen or have been imposed(Yes, sometimes I have to impose too), I regret being doubtful of their abilities and skills as they have got such brilliant creative and original minds.
Sometimes, the work is full of innocence, sometimes full of maturity, always reflecting deep thoughts! So many times, I have felt overwhelmed with emotions and motivated to do so much more, inspired by the creativity of their genius minds. A little bit of encouragement from me to them is all that is required to make it an enjoyable learning process for me and the students alike. Teaching and learning as hectic, monotonous and boring is de-constructed and becomes pleasant.
I keep thinking of those students who have so much talent and creativity and who do not yet know about it or know about it but hesitate to let their thoughts and ideas flow through writng because they have been so much exposed to writing in a cliché form. And here you are, working for the best interest of the kids and helping them work through their creative and writing skills. And I thank you on behalf of all the well wishers of our Mauritian kids for such a wonderful endeavour.
I would also like to congratulate and thank all the other Fellows for their great initiatives. Sometimes, they seem disheartened by unexpected turns of events, but it is very pleasing to see that they never give up. Their diligence and good spirit is inspiring to us all.
May the students keep proving us wrong by being the best!
Best wishes and love to the whole ELI Africa family.
Neha
Congrats Linsay
You are doing a great job
Dheeren