Discipline in class

One of the commonest complaints of teachers worldwide  is that of disciplinary issues. A hot potato as that is worth considering if not say worth investing due time on, normally in preservice training before we get to start this daunting duty. However, it’s never too late, we – teachers and supervisors- ought to expend enough time on this critical topic. From here, I call upon all stakeholders in our educational field to participate and share ideas: the least thing to do.

A lesson depends on many factors to reach an acceptable level of successful achievement, one of which is discipline in class. No one can deny that actually  little if not no learning takes place in a chaotic class. Chatting between students, playing or even being busy with one’s mobile phones can not lead to a learning leading atmosphere. A so lenient teacher can’t as well make his performance successful; on the contrary, he might even disturb the beighbouring classes. Thus, no results but contribution to more chaos in our schools.

Administrative and ministerial regulations are tending more and more towards giving more rights to students at the expense of teachers and the whole educational systems. Hence, we are meeting more challenges, getting targets and even victims to students’ assaults. The examples here are too many to quote here. They are not my purpose in this paper.

All in all, it’s become very rare to ask a teacher about his career without talking about students’ endless problems in class; and not to talk about what happens during the days of examinations. Suffice it to say: it’s become too hard for a lot of teachers especially novices to deal with such challenges as these.

From my point of view, and to get away from sterile descriptions of reality, the causes of indiscipline lie in problems at home, with friends, at school or even in oneself as a student.

A student who is doomed to failure is actually demoralized and will cause problems. A student who lives familial problems will also add up more. A student who is experiencing adolescent fluctuations will, too . To say but few.

On the other hand, a teacher who fails to set up his class well can also lead to misbehaviours. If s/he shows that he isn’t capable or proficient enough in the subject. If he is too forgiving. If –especially- SHE is fragile,i.e. can easily weep before students at the minor breakdown in class. 

Many of us may also be too firm and stern, never smiling and always frowning. This may seem successful; but, can this lead to student’s learning? Sure not: an intimidated student will never learn, and if he does, it won’t be for long and he will always carry hard memos in his head, which will hinder his future performances.

Too often, it may not be worth making an issue out of minor acts in the classroom. Many trivial reactions led to big confrontations and even assaults and resorting to  police or courts. The results have often been disappointing to teachers.

The teacher’s personality plays a pivotal role in class control. A man/ woman of values is respected and looked at as an educator not a mere teacher of a subject. A smiling and humane teacher will always be close to his students. A proficient and knowable teacher will never break down in class. However, always stay firm.

Please overlook any mistakes, and share your ideas. 1/8/2012