How to Learn From Making Mistakes

SOGI-inclusive education is new for many, and mistakes are inevitable when we are trying something new. Language and perspectives are actively evolving and shifting among gender and sexual minority communities, and there are countless perspectives to consider.

Here are some suggestions from educators we know on how to practice courageous imperfection.

Take a deep breath.

If you use the wrong name or pronoun for a student who recently had the courage to announce how they’d like to be addressed, you might be thinking only about the harm you caused. Do what you can to stay present and gracious in order to grow.

Focus on understanding.

If you get corrected about your language in a room full of peers, you may feel embarrassed. Focus on curiosity to see if there is new information to be aware of.

Model for other staff and students.

Others may be nervous about speaking up for SOGI-inclusive education for fear of using the “wrong” words. Educators ask students to learn through mistakes on a daily basis. By modelling trying, falling down, and getting back up, you are showing to others that they too can learn and grow through mistakes.

Share what you learned.

We don’t all need to learn from our own mistakes; sometimes we can learn from the mistakes of others. Use your experience to help peers with their learning in order to minimize the harm that can be caused by a slip-up.

Put the learning into action.

This could mean pursuing further learning, working to change systems, or making fewer mistakes in future. Put the error to good use by allowing it to spark change and impact your future actions.

CHECK IT OUT: Looking for more about recovering from a mistake in the moment? This resource from TransCareBC about Correcting Mistakes is a great tool! (While focused on health care providers, the information is relevant if you simply substitute “student” for “patient.”)