The Age of Identity: Who Do Our Kids Think They Are? with Dennis Shirley and Andrew Hargreaves
Nov 6, 2023
auto_awesome
Educational experts Andrew Hargreaves and Dennis Shirley discuss the complexities of identity in education. They emphasize the importance of understanding and supporting diverse identities in educational settings, including marginalized groups like racial, indigenous, LGBTQ, and students with disabilities. The podcast delves into the impact of identity on inclusion, achievement, and social emotional learning, highlighting the need for humanizing education and allowing students to articulate their identities for enhanced engagement and academic performance.
Understanding identity is key for personal growth and belonging.
Promoting inclusion by embracing diverse identities and fostering empathy.
Deep dives
Exploring the Timely Topic of Identity
The guests, Andy Hargreaves and Dennis Shirley, discuss the book 'The Age of Identity,' delving into the complexities of identity and the need to expand the idea of inclusion. They emphasize the importance of understanding identity not just for students but also for individuals throughout their lives, highlighting how grappling with identity is crucial for personal growth and a sense of belonging.
Unpacking the Dimensions of Identity
Hargreaves and Shirley advocate for a nuanced approach to identity, recognizing that individuals encompass multiple identity facets beyond visible traits. They stress the significance of acknowledging and embracing diverse identities, promoting inclusive environments that encourage individuals to articulate the complexities of who they are.
Navigating Controversial Identity Conversations
The discussion navigates controversial aspects of identity, including LGBTQ issues and marginalized identities like older order Mennonites. By advocating for diverse voices and identities, the conversation underscores the importance of understanding and acknowledging the multifaceted nature of individuals, promoting empathy and inclusion.
Embracing Self-Awareness and Legacy
The episode delves into self-awareness and legacy, highlighting the significance of understanding one's evolving identity and legacy. Through personal anecdotes and reflections, the speakers underscore the importance of embracing complexity and diverse identities while fostering introspection and inclusivity within educational and professional settings.
A perfect storm is upon us and educators are in the middle of it. Identity issues often incite and divide us, but they are actually our way out of the storm. This is what this episode’s guests, Andrew Hargreaves and Dennis Shirley, posit. In their latest book, The Age of Identity, they seek to shed light on this topic to help educators make meaning of this highly complicated issue. They demonstrate how to be vulnerable, ask questions, and interrogate our own thinking to better prepare young people for a future where they can learn to live together and help others belong.