I always struggle with the meaning of the word "authentic," which is probably why the word is in quotes in the prompt. For example, what is "authentic" Korean food? It implies there's one way of making Korean food when there's so many ways and they're all valid. In a similar sense, there are so many versions of you and they can all be considered "authentic." I'm going to stop splitting hairs now and just define "authentic" as being true to yourself - your interests and passions - being vulnerable and being empathetic.
I'm actually giving a presentation tomorrow on the virtues of blended learning as a guest speaker - the first guest speaking arrangement I've ever had. It makes me nervous to be considered an expert of anything, so I hesitate to take a "formal," monocle-and-mustache approach. However, at the same time, my friend (who asked me to do this) needs me to be somewhat of an authority figure on blended learning so he can convince his instructors (to whom I'm presenting) to make the transition.
I think adult learners need a little bit of both. They need someone authentic who will validate and affirm their previous experiences and learn alongside them. They also need expect someone with expertise - otherwise, what are they paying for? My "authentic" self will be asking them to participate and co-create knowledge, drawing from their past experiences as students and teachers. My "formal" self will spend some time lecturing and throwing fancy terminology at them. Ultimately, I plan not to position myself as an expert but as a practitioner who is continually learning throughout this process.
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