Teachers are models of values. Whether conscious of them or not, values are exhibited implicitly and explicitly. Values connote standards, code of ethics and strong beliefs.
Open-mindedness is basic in promoting respect and trust between teachers and students. It opens avenues for unrestricted search for information and evidence. Problems and issues are resolved in a democratic way. Students are encouraged to consider one another’s finding and explanations. Free exchanges of suggestion develop a respectful attitude among them.
Fairness and impartiality in treating students eliminate discrimination. Teachers must be unbiased and objective in judging their work and performance. Avoid preferential considerations that result to negative response and indifference. Objectives evaluations are easily accepted and gratefully acknowledged. Fairness inculcates self-confidence and trust among students.
Sincerity and honesty are values exhibited in words and actions. Teachers interact with students every minute. Their mannerisms, habits and speech are watched and at times imitated. Therefore teachers must show their real self, devoid of pretenses and half-truths. Sincerity dictates that they stick to the truth, to the extent of accepting what they do not know about the lesson. Mistakes and faults are accepted and not “covered up”. In the end, students realize that it is better to tell the truth than feign a falsehood. Sincerity and honesty are taken as openness in dealing with others.
Professionalism is highly treasured in the teaching profession. Teachers are adjudged professional if they are knowledgeable, skilled and value-laden. In addition to competence in teaching, they must have internalized the edicts of the profession, thus exhibit ethical and moral conduct. Upright and exemplary in behavior they earn respect and high esteem from students, colleagues. They catch student’s attention and keep them focused on the topic, to soothe their feeling away from tension and to develop a sense of humor among themselves.
By: Alma D. Manlapaz | T-II / ESP | Jose C. Payumo Jr. Memorial High School | Naparing, Dinalupihan, Bataan
