Chapter 18 of Stephen Brookfield’s (2015) The Skillful Teacher is entitled Exercising Teacher Power Responsibly. It’s an interesting discussion about many types of power in the teaching environment from the power of the institution, to the teacher, to the students. A main point is the importance of recognizing that as teachers, whether we want it or not, we have power, and we must be aware of how we use it to help or hinder students. Teacher power can be used to “inspire, guide, and encourage, just as much as to punish, diminish, or massage your ego” (p. 240).
As a student, I have experienced teachers who wield their power irresponsibly (e.g. inconsistently, playing favourites, etc). As a new teacher, I feel that I’m more in the camp of being afraid of my power and how to use it appropriately (these are adult students, aren’t they my equals, my peers?). This brought to mind a famous quote from a 1992 book by Marianne Williamson (which is often mis-attributed to Nelson Mandela). Part of the quote is:
“our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate….[it is] that we are powerful….[but] there is nothing enlightening about shrinking so that others will feel insecure around you….As we are liberated out of our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.”
As Brookfield (2015) says, it is important to act authentically, develop expertise, and accept the responsibility that comes with the power. Otherwise how can we empower and liberate others?
This is great food for thought for anyone who teaches or influences others (which we all do!). For a more detailed discussion of the types of power and how to use power, see: http://www.civitas.edu.pl/pub/nasza_uczelnia/projekty_badawcze/Taylor/power_1112006_12338.pdf
References:
Brookfield, Stephen D. (2015). The skillful teacher: on technique, trust, and responsiveness in the classroom. (3rd ed.). San Francisco, CA: Jossey-Bass.
Williamson, Marianne. (1992). A return to love. New York: Harper Collins.
Reflections on Adult Education 