October 18 - Schaberg - Using Poetry

I have not really integrated poetry into my classes as much as I would have liked. However, after our poetry seminar I am ready for a change. I have used music (lyrics, beats, etc.) for some lessons, but I believe I can use it in a more meaningful way. What great ideas to have the kids pick a song that expresses how they feel, their ambitions, etc.

Ohh, and regards to "The Day of the Dead", I should have been more specific. It is very similar to how the Chinese New Year (per details from class) is celebrated. "Dia de Los Muertos" is a Mexican celebration that occurs after Halloween (November 1 or 2). Family and friends celebrate in remembrance of their ancestors.[Edit by="adambra on Oct 19, 7:55:25 PM"][/Edit]

Hi,

As was mentioned by Clayton as he introduced David, the main reason he spoke to us, beyond his academic credentials, was that he was a very accomplished teacher. As a matter of fact, seldom have I been in a class with an instructor who really listened so well to what his students had to say. He praised often, kept energy flowing, and deftly hurled questions at us. It was one of the best poetry encounters I have had in an academic setting. The Institute continues to challenge and entertain. Nice job!

David was a very solid presenter, I can see how he interprets engagement and has classes that deal with emotions and feelings especially within poetry. It is amazing that we get to have scholars present topics on Chinese Literature and Ancient Chinese history. I am so glad we get the best. Thanks Dube.

WoW! You find fantastic teachers. David's style of questioning and having us figure out meaning...and even stating that experts don't know all of the background of some of the poems...was intellectually challenging and fun. I appreciated how he would let us discuss aspects of a poem and then throw out a fact that raised the possibility we were on the wrong track - like mentioning that in the original of "Quince" no genders were mentioned.

Thank you David. Thank you Clay and Miranda. I am so enjoying this learning environment.

I enjoyed the class on poetry. It was a every good reminder that student voices are just as important as those of scholars. That the student can add to a conversation about a work or body of works. It is hard to let go of your class and have open forums were everyones opinion is valid. The discussions could be a good into for student writing as well.

The poetry section was really informative. I wonder if we wouldn't discover - those of us who work with students who have made 'Rap Music' a central premise of their being - I wonder if we wouldn't discover some rap
roots dating back to the chinese...As I examined some of the poetry/lyrics read to us by David, everything seems to hint that we'd find a whole lot there.

I completely agree with John. Professor Schaberg was such an excellent model for teachers. His approach was gentle but fascinating, inquisitive but also informative. As an English (and history) teacher, I often grapple with students who like to make wild leaps, especially with poetry. Schaberg's way of opening up the session to discussion while still providing the appropriate context and clarification was wonderful. I really enjoyed the session and found a new interest in ancient Chinese poetry! Thank you!