The Role of Authority in Education: Should Dante lead with innovation or stick to the plan?

Dante and Gabriela are part of a school robotics club, and their teacher, Mr. Thompson, has always been strict about following instructions to the letter. However, during a recent competition, Mr. Thompson unexpectedly asks the students to take on more leadership roles and make decisions about their project. Gabriela is excited about the opportunity to innovate and suggests a new design for their robot. Dante, on the other hand, is used to following Mr. Thompson’s precise instructions and feels uncertain about stepping into a leadership role. He worries about the potential failure and the responsibility that comes with making decisions. As the competition day approaches, Mr. Thompson tells Dante that he trusts him to lead the team and encourages him to express his ideas. Dante Something has to give.