And Both are True: Mimicry and Authenticity in Educating for Faith

And Both are True: Mimicry and Authenticity in Educating for Faith

Every teacher wants to make a difference in their students’ lives, and educating for faith involves relationship building. Jewish faith is founded on an individual’s relationship with God, the Land of Israel, Torah, and the Jewish People. Teachers who want to help students build their faith need to build relationships with their students which support, but do not supplant, the students’ relationships with the foundations of Jewish faith. Similar to the approach used to guide skill development in academic, behavioral, and social-emotional learning, where modeling, direct instruction, or coaching techniques may be effective, the teacher needs to step aside at the appropriate juncture to encourage independence. Emulation of role models can be a useful first stage, but mimicry that does not advance beyond imitation may impede authentic religious growth and development.

What is a Gender Script?

What is a Gender Script?

Miriam Hirsch is an Assistant Professor of Education at Stern College, Yeshiva University. Terry Astuto is a Professor of Educational Administration at the Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, & Human Development, New York University. Read the accompanying...

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