Dads and Virtual Learning: Teacher or Educator?

I was sitting on the couch trying to watch a football game one evening when I couldn’t help but overhear a discussion taking place between my wife and my oldest daughter about her educational experience. It’s funny, I cannot remember who was playing on television but I do remember their conversation. The part that struck me was what my daughter said while comparing her experience with her teachers to those of her friends who attend a local private school.

When talking about one of her teachers in particular, she referred to her as an “educator” not a “teacher.”  To her the difference was that one focused on “educating the student” while the other focused on “teaching a subject.”  Take a moment and let that sink in...

One focuses on “educating the student” while the other focuses on “teaching a subject.”  While they may not be all that different in terms of definitions, they are different in terms of distinctions.  One is focused on the student; the other is focused on the subject. One educates, the other instructs.

It is an interesting concept to consider and ask of ourselves – which category do we fall under?

This is not about a job or a role; this is about an approach to learning. Remember, it was one of her teachers whom she referred to as an educator.

I would like to hear your thoughts about the difference between an educator and a teacher. Do you think there is a distinction between the two? If so, how can that manifest itself in your home?

In what ways can we create experiences for our children where we educate them and not just teach them?

I look forward to continuing this discussion with you. Perhaps by then I will remember who was playing in the football game, though that does not seem so important now.