Best Practice

Is the concept "Best Practice" a phrase people use as a cop out for not wanting to try something new or going back to what works in the classroom? It seems more often than not, when I hear those two words it is from the mouth of someone who is unwilling to try something. It could also be how I am interpreting the situation but more often than not, some teachers do not want to change and use the phrase as a way to justify their style (or lack of). 

This attitude can be applied to discipline issues in which the phrase could mean "be flexible and adapt"rather than automatic consequences (please read this article) work with the student and try to come to an understanding. Not everything is "black and white" and there are times where repercussions are needed but you do catch more flies with honey than vinegar.

Another issue in which this attitude is applied is in the classroom. Just because the newest educational model or article says a certain method does not work does not mean it should be dismissed. An example would be a teacher who never liked teaching a certain topic in class using the argument "best practice" to totally dismiss it. Old school ways of teaching still work for some individuals and yet, we seem to want to always change everything in one fell swoop. Almost like we are shooting for the next flavor of the month. Please read this blog to see what is being discussed. 

The last place this attitude or concept seems to be applied is in the office. It seems like political correctness and a lack of humor have infiltrated work places and campuses. When did asking simple questions turn into hurting people's feelings which led to being insensitive and possible racist? With the world the way it is right now (look at this article about recent events in Paris) shouldn't we be working to teach students how to overcome rather than to expect?

In conclusion, I have gone off on a tangent from "best practice" to "terrorism" but there are a lot of connections, even if I cannot express them in a cogent manner. Please leave comments and tell me what you think!