Dreams and Reality -Teaching in America ABSTRACT

Author : Boguslawa Anna Wolford

Abstract :In my paper, I will discuss the art of teaching in political and economic contexts. University teaching is highly contextual. Teachers are influenced by both our dreams and our reality. As we enter our classrooms, we bring politics and culture with us. We adjust to new norms and standards. In 2025, American universities face unprecedented challenges. The executive orders forced American professors to redefine the concepts of democracy, culture, race, and identity. This rapidly changing environment caused frustration and anxiety. The world as we know it is gone. First, American universities went from the hotbeds of liberal ideas to the bastions of administrative powers. Second, Americans shifted their position from being global leaders to acting like global aggressors. My presentation is devoted to finding your personal path in the sweeping sea of dramatic changes. As a solution, this presentation focuses on the emotional defense mechanism of resilience and reflection. The format of this article is different. This paper is meant to be a personal reflection of the teacher who lives in a hostile environment and who faces deteriorating living conditions. This story is about a long-lasting commitment to teaching and professional resilience. The author of this paper holds several advanced degrees ranging from international relations and international development to educational psychology and education. Presenting this story will serve as a deeper reflection on teaching and survival during political chaos and economic instability

Keywords :Resilient teaching, political context, academic freedom, higher education, reflection

Conference Name :International Conference on Teacher Education (ICOTE-25)

Conference Place Malaga, Spain

Conference Date 8th May 2025