Jeanine Basinger: 'Everyone will tell you how rigid I am, but a teacher has to be flexible. You can't cut the student to your cloth you have to cut yourself to theirs.'

Everyone will tell you how rigid I am, but a teacher has to be flexible. You can't cut the student to your cloth you have to cut yourself to theirs.

In her thought-provoking quote, Jeanine Basinger, a prominent film historian and educator, highlights the delicate balance between structure and adaptability in teaching. At first glance, it appears contradictory for a teacher to be labeled as rigid while also promoting the need for flexibility. However, Basinger's words emphasize that true pedagogical success lies in the teacher's ability to mold themselves to accommodate their students' unique needs rather than expecting them to conform to a predetermined mold.Teachers often garner a reputation for being rigid due to the inherent structure and rules that govern the educational system. It is essential to establish a framework within which both teachers and students can operate effectively. However, Basinger's insight reminds us that teaching is not a one-size-fits-all approach. Every student is inherently different, possessing unique personalities, experiences, and learning styles. To be effective educators, teachers must recognize and adapt to these individual differences.The comparison and contrast of Basinger's quote with an unexpected philosophical concept can add an intriguing layer to the discussion. Let's explore the theory of existentialism, which highlights the individual's responsibility to create their own meaning and shape their own destiny. Existentialism aligns with Basinger's idea by emphasizing the importance of acknowledging the individual and their personal agency.Existentialism posits that individuals have the freedom to choose their own path, and their decisions ultimately shape their existence. Similarly, in the context of teaching, educators must have the flexibility to adapt their teaching methodologies and strategies to meet their students' diverse needs. By cutting themselves to the students' cloth, teachers acknowledge that students possess their own unique potentials and visions of their educational journeys.However, the connection between Basinger's quote and existentialism also reveals an interesting contrast. While existentialism underscores personal agency, Basinger's quote emphasizes the teacher's role in facilitating growth and guiding students. It acknowledges that teachers possess the responsibility to understand their students' perspectives and accommodate them accordingly. It implies that teachers, like existential individuals, should shape their teaching approach to support their students' personal and educational development.In conclusion, Jeanine Basinger's quote, "Everyone will tell you how rigid I am, but a teacher has to be flexible. You can't cut the student to your cloth; you have to cut yourself to theirs," reminds us of the delicate balance between structure and adaptability in teaching. It emphasizes the need for teachers to recognize and respect the individuality of their students. By being flexible and adapting to their students' needs, teachers can foster an environment that empowers students to pursue their unique educational journeys. While the unexpected exploration of existentialism reveals a philosophical parallel, it also highlights the role of teachers in guiding and shaping students' growth. Ultimately, Basinger's quote serves as a poignant reminder to teachers that their flexibility is instrumental in creating a nurturing environment for their students' diverse capabilities and aspirations.