Teachers Becoming Extinct

In this photograph, a classroom of seventh and eighth grade students are seen sitting at tables and apparently doing class work on computers. The students in this picture appear to be focused on the screens in front of them, which is not surprising, considering the fact that since the late 90’s-2000, children were introduced to computers in their classrooms. Although such a scene is not surprising in this day and age, one thing is somewhat shocking- the absence of a teacher in the photograph. These students in the picture are not under the guidance or instruction of any visible teacher in this classroom. Such a reality demonstrates the idea that a teacher is not necessarily needed in the twenty-first century due to the technological advances that society has undergone. The picture sends a message that states: Who needs a teacher? Can the computer and internet lessons and multi-media software not teach our children?

The picture that I have chosen does not only support the main argument of my research topic, but it also exhibits the main argument of my research topic- that the advances in computers and in technology have diminished and down played the critical need for teachers in the classroom. The critical element of the picture not displaying a teacher to guide the students as they perform assignments on computers demonstrates my main idea that society no longer sees teachers as a vital part of children’s educational and societal success. Evidently, modern society views computers as the important source of a child’s education. This photograph also contributes to my argument that the government and society is slowly, but definitely trying to eradicate the positions of teachers in secondary education.

The visual presented here develops a strong pathos appeal, especially if one does not focus on the students and computers in the classroom, but also recognize the absence of a teacher or instructor in the classroom. At a mere glance, the picture stood out to me because as an educator, majoring in English secondary education, I was able to quickly recognize the absence of an instructor in this classroom of students. It was disappointing and hurtful to see that some people believe and feel that teachers are not needed and that they come second to the modern teachers-computers and the internet.

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