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What Exactly is Empathy-Based Pedagogy?
Empathy-Based Pedagogy in the Writing Classroom: Reflection, and Responsive Instruction
Grand Takeaways
After confronting the challenges, recounting the benefits, and relaying the nuances of
being a graduate student assistant navigating empathy-based pedagogy, it is safe to say that it has fundamentally shaped the way that I interact with the world…for the better, of course. As educators, we can influence not only our students’ academic success but also their well-being, self-esteem, and sense of belonging. That is truly the heart of teaching, and I am blessed to meet a fantastic set of students every semester. I look forward to connecting with them as I understand that teaching is not purely about sharing knowledge but also about fostering growth within myself. The role I strive for is to teach beyond the curriculum and become an individual who maintains themselves as curious, open-minded, approachable, compassionate, and willing to create a dynamic and inclusive learning environment. As for the next step? That’s a difficult question. But as Jordan Peterson reminds us, “What shall I do with the most difficult of questions? Consider them the gateway to the path of life” (434).
My journey as an educator is far from over, and I look forward to the continued opportunities to grow, learn, and inspire those who walk into my classroom.