Blog Post # 2

What Does it Mean to be a “good” Student According to the Commonsense?

According to the definition of common sense, a good student is someone who can listen, perform, and behave well. These students should have the capability of staying focused during lessons and lectures. They should understand how to take the methods learned from the teacher and complete the given questions and assignments. Classroom expectations and appropriate behavior should always be demonstrated. A good student can learn from their mistakes, handle crises, and take responsibility. However, the common sense is also that students should already be aware of these expectations prior to entering the classroom.

Which Students Are Privileged by this Definition of the Good Student?

            The assumption that a “good student” can meet the standards and expectations the teacher provides for the students is simply unrealistic in some cases. Some students are more privileged than others for several reasons. Perhaps a student has a learning disability or came from a foreign country. Having a rough family life or little to no access to resources are all factors that could limit someone from being a “good student” in today’s world. The privileged students are the ones that fit the description within a typical classroom. This means they can listen, learn, and behave according to the expectations set out by the teacher without any alterations. According to the definition of a good student, privileged students should not need an Educational Assistance, altered assignments, or a Language Instructor.

How is the “Good” Student Shaped by Historical Factors?

            Throughout time, schooling and education have changed and developed based on observation and experience. There have been numerous discoveries which have led to the idea of someone being a “good” student. For example, the Chinese Classics formed the basis of Education or there was the finding that the childhood and youth of a student are the periods of preparation for the future. It was proven that schooling is the natural introduction to an active life; if a child grew up uneducated, it would be considered a father’s error. As well, when one finishes their required schooling, they have completed human development. Along the way, race, gender, and people with disabilities have all been given opportunities to become educated. The development of teachers has also impacted the idea of creating “good” students. The curriculum has grown and expanded throughout history to incorporate different life, behavioral, and academic skills to better help and prepare students.