Peeling off the layers on values: how do they influence your education, employment and everything

Abstract

In times of rapid change and busy lives, there may be few opportunities to reflect on who we are as individuals, and how we interact in various communities, networks or groups. However it is vital that we examine issues that are important to us, and which help to shape our responses and contributions in personal and professional contexts. Each of us makes everyday decisions about people and events, based on values developed and refined according to many different influences. By understanding which values are most important to us, and how these might differ or overlap with those of others, we may apply this knowledge for more effective and strategic decision-making. Working in the field of tertiary education it is important for educator’s to look at ways of optimising chances of success in learning and teaching encounters. What role do values – particularly teachers’ values – play in achieving teaching excellence?