Why did Margie express surprise at the idea of a man being a teacher?a...
Reason for Margie's surprise:
Belief about men's intelligence:
Margie expressed surprise at the idea of a man being a teacher because she believed that men were not intelligent enough to be teachers. This belief stemmed from the fact that in the story "The Fun They Had," the educational system had evolved to the point where only mechanical, robotic teachers were used to instruct students. Margie had grown accustomed to this system and had never encountered a male teacher before. As a result, she found it surprising to think that a man could fulfill the role of an educator.
Societal norms and stereotypes:
In the futuristic world presented in the story, traditional gender roles and stereotypes may still have persisted, leading Margie to associate teaching with women rather than men. This could have influenced her surprise at the notion of a man being a teacher. Additionally, the absence of male teachers in her educational experience may have reinforced her preconceived notions about who could take on the role of an educator.
Changing perspectives:
Margie's surprise highlights the impact of societal norms and expectations on individuals' perceptions. It also serves as a reflection of how people's beliefs can be shaped by their environment and experiences. The story prompts readers to consider the implications of automation and technological advancements on education, as well as the evolving roles of teachers in society.