1. The politics of the classroom is an interesting topic that is rarely discussed. However, in Freire’s essay it brings up some powerful points about the classroom setting and the educators. I feel that in some classes, teachers might not allow for discussion, which is the exact opposite of a “problem-posing class”. In a close minded, math class, the teacher would only show one way of getting to a solution, and on the test and quizzes if a student arrives at the answer using a different method the student would be penalized. Furthermore, in an English class, they might only test on certain aspects of the book and small details that some people might find trivial. In a history class, a teacher might have their personal biasis about a history event to present the material in a close minded way. However, “problem-posing” classes would be very different. These teachers would be open minded, flexible, unbiased, and they would allow for class discussions and questions regarding what was taught. Lastly, the teachers would learn along with the students. They could learn the different students learning techniques and new and better ways to present materials to make it interesting yet challenging. Freire makes the distinction between a students role as a “spectator” by referring to his realtionship to objects on a desk. This demonstrates the thinking that some students are considered objects and the teacher would be the person in power.

2. The two terms drawn form the Marxist literature are praxis and alienation. Praxis, was connected to liberation and changing the world. While, alienation was a way to isolate something. In relationship to this essay, I would define praxis as expanding someone’s viewpoint and challenging one “to look outside the box”. Alienation would be more like control. These two terms are applied to the study of education because he considers an educator who is just “banking” information into a students brain as alienating the students viewpoints. On the other hand, Praxis would be an educator who enlightens the students.

3. If Freire is the teacher in this essay, he presents his information in a way which is very much like a “deposit”. He talks to the audience and his points are clear and backed up by facts and examples. This essay is not considered a dialogue rather, he is consciously presenting his view regarding a subject.