In a previous post, I mentioned that I wondered how I could bring the real Russia home to my students. I also wonder how relationships are developed and sustained. As a fellow for the Teachers for the Global Classroom, we are required to develop an essential question. My question is that of relationships. How do relationships shape or define the Russian identity? How much do these relationships influence an individual? I want to examine both small (people to people) to larger (individual versus power/authority). I also want to explore an individuals relationship with achievement? What is considered success to a Russian? Do they have a Russian Dream as we share an American Dream? How does this define them?
I know from having many discussions with my American Problems students that they struggle in defining what they consider to be the American Dream. If it used to be tangible, I think that it has now slipped away from us, if it ever existed at all. Do Russians have a dream? Where do they see themselves within it? I know that I am probably asking too many questions, but until my arrival, I am loathe to pare them down. I want to enter this experience with an open mind and a burgeoning curiosity.
As a true people person, I wonder if the repression of the Soviet era has affected how people act with each other and toward each other. I wonder if their citizens are open and transparent or stoic like Ivan Denisovich as Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn portrayed him.
I won't have long to find out. Looking forward to travel, and as I said on a regular basis...I am truly living the dream.
I know from having many discussions with my American Problems students that they struggle in defining what they consider to be the American Dream. If it used to be tangible, I think that it has now slipped away from us, if it ever existed at all. Do Russians have a dream? Where do they see themselves within it? I know that I am probably asking too many questions, but until my arrival, I am loathe to pare them down. I want to enter this experience with an open mind and a burgeoning curiosity.
As a true people person, I wonder if the repression of the Soviet era has affected how people act with each other and toward each other. I wonder if their citizens are open and transparent or stoic like Ivan Denisovich as Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn portrayed him.
I won't have long to find out. Looking forward to travel, and as I said on a regular basis...I am truly living the dream.