Regarding differences between Johnson and Delpit:
I think the Delpit reading was more constructive (meaning, she at least offered what I took as a solution). Johnson wrote that privilege exists and didn't seem to lay out a solution (although he implies that recognition and discussion of privilege is the first step---or maybe there is no solution), while Delpit writes (maybe i'm wrong) that the culture of power exists and rather than right that wrong, if "we" clue everyone into the culture, and collaborate with others, we can at least level out the playing field in the classroom.
Also I re-read my post and I have no clue where the Babe reference came from. Sounds a little ridiculous at second glance....
ha ha ha... I actually loved the Babe skit. Perhaps a little more insight into your psyche than you intended? :) Nice distinction between these two authors, too.
ReplyDeleteI agree, the skit does a great job of reflecting Delpit's views. It actually haelped me to understand the text better Geoff.
ReplyDeleteGeoff, as I understood Delpit, she was arguing that students need to learn the "culture of power" so that they can use it in school now or in life later.
ReplyDeleteI'm reminded of some of my lowest performing students and how they deal with frustration.... it seems that if things aren't going well, they can get into self-deprecating behavior instead of consulting the teacher, talking to a guidance counselor/principal, or somehow advocating for themselves. These are examples of using the culture of power to your favor (I think). Instead, my lowest performing students, react negatively and no one is better off.
Geoff one word for that skit, awesome. I think you captured the message of Delpit as I understood it.
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