What happened to the reputation of educators?

​What happened to the respect for those who shape young minds?
What was once a symbol of respect and high status is now slowly fading. Reflecting on this phenomenon, I’go back to the time when teachers and educators were the bearers of knowledge and moral values. A special example of this is Saint Sava. Their work was not just a job but a calling that required patience, dedication, and a love for teaching. Teachers are not merely transmitters of knowledge; they shape the character of children.
 
Today, while technology and science advance at the speed of light, it seems that this aspect of our society is at a standstill. Teachers, educators, and professors are the key to the development of a society. Yet, they seem forgotten and neglected in the race for progress. Financial support for education is insufficient, and environmental support often lacks.
 
How much do we benefit from “modern technologies”?
 
In a world where artificial intelligence and robots might potentially take over everything, we still need to critically reflect and carefully consider all the advantages and disadvantages. Is it really possible for a machine to fully take on the role of a teacher? If we just recall our own teachers, the first thing that comes to mind is the love and care they gave us. Therefore, I believe a robot will never be able to replace a human in that sense. Teachers and educators are bright spots in many of our lives because they are the first we encounter when we leave the family nest. Artificial intelligence cannot provide the tenderness that is essential for a child's development. Of course, we should use all the potential that modern times offer us in the right way. Technologies have significantly improved the quality of teaching, and we should not “run away” from them but rather critically evaluate and use them appropriately.
 
How to restore the reputation of this profession?
 
Every year, fewer and fewer students are interested in becoming teachers or educators. I don't think there is a quick and easy solution to this problem that can be realized overnight. The respect and authority didn't disappear overnight either. Definitely, each individual needs to change their attitudes, beliefs, and any prejudices they might have, and then society, as a collective community, will become a better and nicer place to live. The significance of the teaching profession is much more important than it seems at first glance, as many dialectical unities such as theory and practice, education and upbringing, material, formal, and moral education, etc., intertwine. Restoring the reputation and respect for this profession requires a collective effort from society so that we can once again recognize their significant role in shaping the future.

Author:

Jovana Todorovic