Leading by Example: Role Models in Education

As Heritage Day has passed, a day when we celebrate the rich tapestry of cultures that make up our beautiful nation, it's an opportune moment to reflect on the teachers who are instrumental in shaping the future of South African education. At Digitisd, an EdTech platform committed to empowering teachers through community, support, and professional development, we believe in the transformative power of role models in education. Today, I want to shed light on a topic that is close to every teacher's heart: role models in education. To explore this, I had the privilege of speaking with two passionate teachers, Teacher A and Teacher B, who shared their perspectives on the impact of role models and how we can nurture a culture of mentorship among teachers.

What Does Being a Role Model Mean in Education?

Teacher A believes that being a role model in the teaching profession is all about setting high standards and constantly striving for self-improvement. It's about being an example, not just in terms of subject knowledge but also in self-awareness and pedagogical approaches. To Teacher A, being a role model is synonymous with continuous growth and self-awareness.

Teacher B echoes this sentiment, adding that being a role model goes beyond the classroom. It's about going the extra mile, facilitating the growth of others, and being open to positive change. Teacher B emphasises the importance of introspection and a devotion to personal growth to inspire colleagues and learners alike.

The Impact of Role Models: Personal Experiences

Teacher A shares a personal experience that illustrates the profound impact of a colleague's role modeling. They recall a colleague who exuded professionalism, remaining calm, ethical, and unbiased in the face of staffroom politics and teaching conflicts. As a novice teacher in their second year, Teacher A found this colleague's behaviour incredibly impactful on their own teaching journey. It reinforced the importance of professionalism and ethical conduct in the education profession.

Teacher B's journey as a novice teacher took a positive turn with the guidance of a mentor who became a close friend. This mentor's approach was unlike what Teacher B had experienced before. The mentor actively listened, acknowledged concerns, and provided constructive feedback without judgment. The mentor's guidance focused on introspection and empowering Teacher B to become the best version of themselves. This approach stood in stark contrast to the prevalent culture of criticism and negativity.

Nurturing a Culture of Role Modelling

Both Teacher A and Teacher B emphasise the need to foster a culture of role modelling among teachers. Teacher A suggests doing away with the culture of professional sabotage, gossip, and personality biases. Instead, there should be more mentorship and guidance, a willingness to learn from one another, and an acceptance of constructive criticism as motivation rather than insults. Respecting boundaries and not forcing new teachers to conform to an existing culture of indifference are essential steps.

Teacher B adds an invaluable piece of advice from their mentor: never project your own insecurities or ideas onto another person. Recognize the uniqueness of each individual and present them with information, allowing them the freedom to interpret and apply it according to their needs and circumstances. This approach ensures that mentorship is a journey of self-discovery and growth for the protégé, guided by the role model.

In conclusion, the impact of role models in education cannot be overstated. Teacher A and Teacher B exemplify the transformative power of positive role modelling. To create a culture of role modeling among teachers, it's crucial to promote professionalism, ethical conduct, mentorship, and open dialogue. Let's celebrate the teachers who lead by example and inspire positive change in South African education. Happy Heritage Day!

What are your thoughts on role models in education? Share your experiences and ideas in the comments below!