discipline

Home

Chat

Blogs

Collection

Directory

Home : 2002 : January : 25

discipline
By Dave

Having worked in schools with behaviorally challenged kids for many years, I have often observed teachers who control through fear and find them the most fearful. Fearful of their class being out of control; fearful of being
judged by their peers as being too easy; fearful of a particular student who challenges them (the "I have to show them who is in charge or they won't respect me" syndrome); fearful of making a mistake; fearful that their lack of skill, other than abusive control, will be disclosed. The excellent teacher seldom raises their voice except in excitement and enthusiasm. The excellent teacher

provides boundries and limits that allow children to grow mentally and physically. The children from a well run, stimulating classroom can be outside the classroom without significant problems. The teacher who runs a strict, controlling classroom may find few problems within the classroom, but will see some of those students explode with challenging behavior in the halls, at lunch, recess, etc. A class that fosters discussion, that challenges children to think critically, that fosters an excellent work ethic, that teaches problem solving is the class that will turn out excellent adults and good memories of school in future years.