We Respect Teachers Who Are Warm Demanders
By: Kimmy Cheung, EC Oakland Cohort 5 Fellow
In my experience as a student who has attended schools in different districts and countries, I have concluded that classroom management is an integral aspect of the educational process that can significantly impact the overall learning experience. Specifically, the conflicting control aspect of classroom management is an area that requires substantial reform for the betterment of education. This issue arises when teachers find it challenging to strike the ideal balance between being strict and lenient toward their students. On one hand, when teachers seek to exert excessive control over their students, it can create an unpleasant environment that may ultimately hinder the learning process. On the other hand, when there is a lack of control, the class can become disorganized and unproductive, leading to suboptimal learning outcomes. Therefore, finding the optimal balance between being strict and lenient is crucial in creating a conducive learning environment.
The Role of Respect in Learning
As stated above, I have personally gone through many schools with entirely different views and perspectives. Spending around 7 to 8 hours a day in school, I have observed that the lack of respect can be detrimental to my motivation and overall self. When students engage in disrespectful behavior, it can lead to a disruption in the learning process, which can affect the entire class. Moreover, it can create an unsafe environment that can cause emotional distress for students. As many of our behaviors and attitudes are shaped by the people and circumstances around us, it’s not uncommon to find ourselves adopting these negative or undesirable behaviors simply because they are prevalent in our daily lives. That is why it’s important to be aware of the impact our surroundings can have on us.
Teachers’ Role in Cultivating Respect
However, teachers also play a critical role in facilitating that culture of respect by establishing explicit guidelines for students and enforcing disciplinary measures for any act of disrespect. It is during this aspect of classroom management that the issue of control arises. The manner in which an educator manages the classroom has a significant impact on a student’s academic and personal development. The importance of emphasizing respect in the classroom cannot be overstated. I have observed firsthand the disparity between classrooms where respect is emphasized and those where it is not. It is my firm belief that the manner in which a teacher manages and cares for their class significantly influences students’ views on proper etiquette. Teachers must strive to maintain a delicate balance between being overly permissive and excessively strict. When students perceive that a teacher is too lenient, some may interpret this as permission to behave in an inappropriate or disruptive manner. Conversely, if a teacher is excessively harsh, the class may become disengaged and unresponsive. Therefore, it is essential that teachers cultivate a learning environment that is safe, supportive, and conducive to academic growth. This environment is created by Warm Demanders. By promoting and modeling respect, teachers can foster a sense of mutual trust and understanding between themselves and their students. This, in turn, can lead to a more positive and productive learning experience for all students.
