In a shocking display of disrespect, a teacher was recently caught on camera mocking a student in a classroom in Accra.
Teachers must respect students' feelings, not mock them. This is the message that has been echoed by educators and experts alike, who emphasize that a respectful relationship between teacher and student is crucial for a student's academic success.
Building Respectful Relationships
When teachers call students by name, ask questions about how they are doing, and listen to students, they demonstrate respect. These actions, according to education expert, are essential in establishing a positive and supportive learning environment. As one Facebook post notes, "You rarely strive for greatness in areas you do not respect."
Establishing respectful relationships with students requires intentional interactions over time. This involves not just showing empathy towards students, but also being mindful of the language and tone used in the classroom. Commenters on a Facebook group for educators suggest that venting about frustrations can be done without shaming or blaming students.
The Impact of Disrespect
Sometimes, crying can be embarrassing, but a teacher wants to teach her pupils to respect and express their feelings freely. This is the message that is being conveyed by educators who believe that students should feel comfortable expressing their emotions without fear of being mocked or ridiculed.
A recent study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences found that when teachers and students empathize with each other, it can have a positive impact on student behavior. The study, which involved five diverse California middle schools, found that a one-time intervention to help teachers and students empathize with each other halved the number of suspensions at the schools.
The Way Forward
The incident in Accra serves as a stark reminder of the importance of respecting students' feelings. As educators and experts continue to emphasize, a positive and supportive learning environment is essential for a student's academic success. By showing empathy and respect towards students, teachers can help create a culture of kindness and inclusivity in the classroom.
In the coming weeks, Accra Posts will be exploring ways in which educators and policymakers can work together to promote a culture of respect and empathy in Ghana's schools. This includes highlighting best practices in education, as well as discussing the challenges that teachers and students face in the classroom.
Source: 3News
