There is no one class that is exempted from having at least one student whose behavior is a problem to the teachers. Everday these teachers face their misbehaving students with the hope that they will behave favorably for the duration of the period. But, most often than not, these hopes and prayers are not enough. Teachers should have the rightframe of mind and thr right tools in handling situations.
Attitudinal problems such as disruptive behavior, violent tendencies, cheating and a complete lack of interest in the subject are common issues. Some teachers take the position of authority and demand proper decorum to the point of issuing threats. Others, for fear of lack of experience in such things prefer to take the back seat and refer the students to the principal or the guidance counselor instead. And some, because of the so called Child Protection Law, taking them for granted is the best answer. Although each teacher has his own technique in handling students and situations, doing it out of concern for the students’ welfare is still the best stance. Knowing where the child came from, his/her personal situation, background, social status and intellectual capacities will be a big help in determining what action to take. It is also best if the teachers themselves know why they are reacting to a specific child in a certain way. Self-knowledge has always been the key in dealing with others, be it colleagues or students.
Sometimes, problems arise not because of the students but because of the situation. Teachers should have the capacity to distinguish between putting blame on the child or the circumstances. However, as in any other situation, concern for the child must be the outmost reason for settling things. What will benefit the child will surely benefit the class and will prove that teachers have indeed a very strong influence on children.
A harmonious classroom is always the dream of every teacher. To achieve this, one must love their students and must learn from them while imparting knowledge and wisdom.
By: Essel E. Reyes Alasasin E/S, Alasasin, Mariveles, Bataan
