Understanding Peers in a Learning Community

When I was at school, why did the teacher refer to other students as my “peers” even though I was always more superior and better than them? It's important to understand that other students are your peers and your teacher likely meant that you were part of a group of classmates. This remark was probably intended to make you feel better about yourself.

The Power of Mindset

You need to change your mindset. Even if you believe you are more superior and better than these classmates, you will soon realize that there will always be individuals who are more intelligent, popular, and even more academically gifted. Once you accept that this is how life works, you can strive to be the best person you can be without a negative attitude. Embrace the idea of being part of a learning community.

A Thoughtful Teacher

Sounds like you were lucky enough to have a very intelligent teacher. Your negative reaction might indicate that you have an inflated sense of self-importance. It's okay to think highly of yourself, but it's equally important to acknowledge others. Even if they are less capable than you, your teacher used the term "peer" to encourage you to think of yourself as part of a community.

The Importance of Self-Awareness

Your misuse of English grammar might suggest that your sense of superiority isn't entirely grounded in reality. What you believe might not be the same as what others perceive. Understand that “peer” refers to students of the same age and grade, not someone who is just as smart or academically gifted.

The Diverse Talents of Classmates

Let’s consider the diverse talents of those in your class. Imagine the boy next to you excelling in fixing intricate motors or electronics, destined to earn big bucks one day. Or the girl across the aisle, who might excel in cooking and eventually open a five-star restaurant. Another student might have a gift for music, attending a top conservatory to pursue a career in one of the world’s best orchestras. And yet another student might be a future Olympic athlete, training for hours each day. Who's to say who is superior to whom?

Quiet kids in the back of the classroom might also excel in their own ways, becoming fabulous stay-at-home moms, beloved teachers, or regular babysitters. Everyone in that class will find their niche, where their unique skills and talents make them valuable to society. Not everyone is an academic genius or a football star, but they are all stars in their own right.

Embracing the Term “Peers”

So, in the context of your class or grade level, all students are your peers. Whether you feel superior or not, classmates are simply students of the same age and grade. This term has nothing to do with your IQ, extracurricular achievements, or humility levels. Everyone in your class is a peer, period.

It’s important to accept that there are different strengths and talents among these peers. By understanding and respecting their differences, you can foster a more inclusive and supportive learning environment. Not every one is an academic genius or a football star, but they are all impressive in their own unique ways. Embrace diversity, and you'll find that life is richer for it.