Imitation may be the sincerest form of flattery, but what if it’s also the best first step to faculty teaching excellence? When it comes to pedagogy, we often focus on tips and techniques. Perhaps we have a handful of prescribed practices that we recommend or have had recommended to us. Even when we know someone has limited teaching experience, we often try to encourage them to find their own voice or approach immediately. What if we’re starting on the wrong end of things?
One Response
Dr. Stice,
Grateful for this article. Somehow back in January, via another site suggesting that imitation is good for learning to be a better writer, I began to copy the Gospel of John. My wife joined in. Men in a Bible study group joined in as well. And… some of our grandkids are also copying John. They’ve made it to chapter 9.
So here’s why the Gospel of John.
I met my wife in the Spring of ’74. 18 months later, visiting her home around Thanksgiving, two things were important. My wife and I were in love. And her mother was very sick with cancer. We were called into her bedroom. She said, “I have two things to talk about with you. First, are you two going to get married?” A few minutes later we were engaged. Then she said, “Second, and this is important, I want you to promise me to read the Gospel of John.”
She had found her peace with God and wanted it for us. We did get to it. And after more “God nudges” we prayed to receive Jesus.
I tell this story a lot. So when I encounterd the idea of copying, I thought knowing John better would be good, and that copying would be a good way.
Grateful…
Bob Currie