Teaching as Community Property: Essays on Higher Education : Book Review

"Teaching as Community Property" by Lee S. Shulman is a captivating and thought-provoking book that delves into the intricate dynamics of teaching as a collective effort. Shulman, a respected educator and scholar, argues that effective teaching goes beyond individual expertise and is greatly influenced by the social and cultural contexts in which it occurs.

The book emphasizes the significance of acknowledging and cherishing the collective knowledge and experiences of both teachers and students. Shulman suggests that teaching should be viewed as a reciprocal process of learning, where educators and learners mutually contribute to each other's growth and development. He highlights the importance of teachers fostering a sense of community in the classroom, cultivating relationships based on trust, respect, and shared objectives.

Furthermore, Shulman explores the diverse facets of teaching as a communal endeavor. He delves into how educators can learn from and collaborate with their colleagues, drawing on their collective wisdom to enhance their own teaching practices. The book also dives into the role of educational institutions in fostering a sense of community among educators, promoting collaboration and mutual support.

One of the book's strengths is Shulman's ability to connect theory and practice. He provides practical strategies and examples for creating an inclusive and collaborative learning environment. Additionally, he advocates for reflective teaching, encouraging educators to regularly assess and adapt their approaches based on the needs and experiences of their diverse student body.

Overall, "Teaching as Community Property" is a compelling exploration of the communal nature of teaching and its transformative potential. Shulman's insights and recommendations are relevant not only for educators but also for policymakers and anyone interested in advancing education. This book serves as a valuable resource for those seeking to foster inclusive, reflective, and collaborative teaching practices.

What are readers saying?

Lee S. Shulman's book, "Teaching as Community Property," has received a range of opinions from readers. Some reviewers appreciated the book's insights and thought-provoking ideas, while others felt it lacked practicality and was overly theoretical.

One reviewer praised Shulman's exploration of teaching as a communal endeavor, emphasizing its focus on collective responsibility among educators. This perspective resonated with the reviewer, who found the book to be a valuable resource for promoting collaboration and fostering a sense of community among teachers.

Another reviewer applauded the depth of Shulman's analysis, noting how it challenged traditional notions of education and encouraged critical thinking about one's role in the classroom. This refreshing approach gave them a new perspective on their teaching practices.

However, there were readers who found the book too abstract and lacking practical guidance. While they found Shulman's ideas interesting, they struggled to apply them to their own teaching experiences. They were hoping for more concrete strategies or examples to implement the concepts discussed.

Some critics of the book commented on its dense and academic writing style. They felt it would be better suited for educators in higher education or those with a strong background in educational theory. Connecting with the content proved challenging for them, as they felt it did not speak directly to their specific teaching contexts.

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