Humane Education Essay

The material devised and discussed briefly by Dr. Chauvin argues primarily on the validity of humane education and the rationale for the possibility of an educator promoting and advocating the concept. It is not something new. Observations concerning infants and people in general who tend to be attracted to animals have become important aspects not only in the educational setting but also specially in the therapeutic set-up and this is probably the main reason that educators are encouraged to implement or even just entertain the idea in the classroom setting. There writer did explain the advantages of having a pet and how teacher or instructor paves the way for the students to imitate him/her in the care, attention and manner of attending to a creature. The article tackled as well the precautions a person or family must bear in mind or understand before embarking on owning or taking care of an animal by primarily providing brief descriptions of the animals least likely to be of help to the animals most likely to possess value of developing â€Å"humaneness† to a person or child. The article posited that certain limitations must be in place where the school setting is concerned once the students and/or teacher decide to own a pet or animal. II. Discuss the pros and cons of animals in the classroom The pros: A child or person has direct physical access to an animal. Vicariously watching what the particular animal may need and how it will be in association or relationship with people or fellow creature itself (Chauvin, p. 21). It allows the opportunity for students to learn what it is like to be responsible and how or manner of learning the skills that are necessary to be able to work and behave with creatures but most especially towards fellow human beings (Chauvin, p. 21). The trait of empathy is an important characteristic for any person to possess. However, while some have this to some degree, many individuals still do not have the trait or has become elusive for them. It usually takes time and effort to be able to learn and adapt the skill of empathy. Empathy is the ability to feel what the other person feels much like putting oneself in the shoes of another (Chauvin, p. 21). The cons: The article or material warns of problems that may be faced by a person or child especially if he/she did not bother to take the time to learn the basics about the project. Moreover, it implies that anyone interested must be prepared for the setbacks or downsides (Chauvin, p. 21). Anyone on this kind of project must appreciate or anticipate the expenses that might be incurred; more of which are unforeseen most of the times (Chauvin, p. 21). III. Why you will or will not have animals in your classroom. It is a very wonderful and amazing idea because it removes boredom and predictability when this is followed. But if I were to decide I would probably have it like a â€Å"show and tell† type rather than having animals left in the classroom. It is indeed costly on effort, time and money/expense. Not only that, the hidden danger of dealing with animals which will not rule out the possibility of attack on the child/individual (Chauvin, p. 21). The â€Å"show and tell† type may be revised to suit the rationale and intentions of this project to encourage students towards becoming more humane or empathetic. This can be done by having the activity done on a regular basis so that students are followed up what they do at home with their pets and do reflections whether something in the attitudes and behavior of the student has changed considerable or not. Importance of â€Å"humane† education is not just a very trivial thing or idea. The project is significant on the matter of coexistence especially that this planet has become one global village as they say. Reference: Chauvin, Wynter. Animals and children