Having a glimpse into the past, teaching profession is a classy one. Teachers gain high respect in the society for they serve as a role model in the community. Whenever they were, everybody greets them with a lavish smile. Teachers in the past considered to be morally upright, full of integrity and authority, and dignified. Ironically, it is also the time where corporal punishments are present.
In Spanish period up to 19th century, teachers often practice corporal punishments thus making the students more conscious of their behavioral traits and study habits inside the classroom. To avoid punishments, they never fail to browse their notes before sleeping, they are paying attention while the teacher is discussing and they are trying their best to compete with their classmates to meet the norms of the society. Physical and emotional maltreatment of teachers were present during those times but it never fails to boost the determination of the students to strive harder.
Despite of those disciplines given by the teacher, they are producing excellent students. Mastery of the lessons is acquired by the students. Literacy and reading comprehension during elementary grades are high. Better practitioner in different fields can be observed. Cases of malpractices are very rare. Folks said that the education before has a better quality compared to present. Though modernization is not evident, students were able to reach their goals. Maybe, these are the reasons why teachers before gain such respect.
Upon stepping 20th century, corporal punishment is voided. Gradually, teachers became apple of the eye of the society. They observe teacher’s action and reaction towards the students. Every unpleasant moves of the teacher to the students were promulgated through different means. Hence, changes in the attitudes and study habits of the students gets differ and differ. Students’ performance in the class is deteriorating followed by the low results of evaluation during national examination.
If we will compare past to present, a big leap in education is vividly reflecting. Though corporal punishments have its light and dark sides, still it produced an amazing output. Perhaps, moderation in every action will be the key in acquiring better education. Push it or void it? Well, it all depends on us. We are old enough to face the consequences in everything that we are doing. And I believe in a quote “If you love what you’re doing, you’ll be good at it”. Happy teaching!
By: Maricar D. Manansala | Teacher III | Duale Elementary School | Limay, Bataan
