5 answers
Keaton
Student
Saint Francis, Minnesota
2
Questions
Asked
829 views
Why did teachers get less control over the students and how they deal with them?
Essentially my question is why do teachers get less power than they used to have and if they try to discipline a student, not physically, they get in trouble?
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5 answers
Melody Tharpe
Education - Teacher
166
Answers
Indianapolis, Indiana
Updated
Melody’s Answer
Hello Keaton,
As a teacher, I will readily admit that the current educational venue looks rough at times. Remember, you are more likely to hear about the worst cases than the mundane ones. The keywords in your question are "control" and "power". These words bring to mind "fight", "war", "conflict", or "struggle". This is the problem. Education is not meant to be any of these things. However, with societal changes, more governmental oversights, over-testing, and the general unwillingness to admit that education needs a fundamental change, we are more likely to feel, read, and hear about the negative. Teachers need everyone to be on board to promote respect and mutual support for improvement which we do not currently have in this country. I do not believe the teaching profession as changed so much as the environment is more hostile.
As a teacher, I will readily admit that the current educational venue looks rough at times. Remember, you are more likely to hear about the worst cases than the mundane ones. The keywords in your question are "control" and "power". These words bring to mind "fight", "war", "conflict", or "struggle". This is the problem. Education is not meant to be any of these things. However, with societal changes, more governmental oversights, over-testing, and the general unwillingness to admit that education needs a fundamental change, we are more likely to feel, read, and hear about the negative. Teachers need everyone to be on board to promote respect and mutual support for improvement which we do not currently have in this country. I do not believe the teaching profession as changed so much as the environment is more hostile.
Melody, thank you for responding to my question. A follow-up question for you, where did you go to college?
Keaton
Keaton, I went to Purdue University and later went to Western Governors University (WGU) to get my teaching certificate.
Melody Tharpe
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6182
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Keaton,
Based on the data from www.iAsk.ai Ask Ai Search Engine:
There's no denying that the dynamics between teachers and students have evolved over time. Teachers may seem to have less control over their students, but this isn't a sign of diminished authority. Instead, it's a reflection of the changing landscape of education.
One of the key factors influencing this change is the progress in our understanding of child psychology and educational theories. Gone are the days when education was all about strict obedience and punishment. Today, the focus is on creating a positive and supportive learning environment that nurtures critical thinking, creativity, and emotional intelligence. This shift in approach has led to a change in disciplinary methods, favoring communication, empathy, and problem-solving over punishment.
Another important aspect is the growing emphasis on student rights and individual autonomy. The recognition of children's rights and their need for a safe and respectful learning environment has led to the creation of policies that protect students from any form of abuse or unfair treatment. As a result, teachers are now expected to operate within these guidelines, exercising their authority within set limits.
Moreover, societal changes, particularly advancements in technology and access to information, have also had a significant impact. With more exposure to diverse viewpoints and alternative knowledge sources, students are developing critical thinking skills and are more likely to question traditional authority. This encourages teachers to engage in more open dialogues with their students, rather than relying solely on their authority.
While physical discipline is increasingly frowned upon, this doesn't mean that teachers can't maintain discipline. The focus has shifted to non-physical disciplinary methods that encourage appropriate behavior and promote a positive classroom environment. These methods could include verbal warnings, time-outs, loss of privileges, or discussions about the consequences of their actions.
In conclusion, the perceived decrease in teacher control is a result of several factors, including advancements in educational theories, a focus on student rights and autonomy, and societal changes. Even though teachers may seem to have less power, this shift is actually a reflection of a more comprehensive understanding of effective teaching practices and the importance of a supportive and respectful learning environment.
Top 3 Authoritative Reference Publications or Domain Names:
1. National Education Association (NEA) - www.nea.org
2. American Psychological Association (APA) - www.apa.org
3. U.S. Department of Education - www.ed.gov
I hope you find this information helpful. May you be blessed,
James.
Based on the data from www.iAsk.ai Ask Ai Search Engine:
There's no denying that the dynamics between teachers and students have evolved over time. Teachers may seem to have less control over their students, but this isn't a sign of diminished authority. Instead, it's a reflection of the changing landscape of education.
One of the key factors influencing this change is the progress in our understanding of child psychology and educational theories. Gone are the days when education was all about strict obedience and punishment. Today, the focus is on creating a positive and supportive learning environment that nurtures critical thinking, creativity, and emotional intelligence. This shift in approach has led to a change in disciplinary methods, favoring communication, empathy, and problem-solving over punishment.
Another important aspect is the growing emphasis on student rights and individual autonomy. The recognition of children's rights and their need for a safe and respectful learning environment has led to the creation of policies that protect students from any form of abuse or unfair treatment. As a result, teachers are now expected to operate within these guidelines, exercising their authority within set limits.
Moreover, societal changes, particularly advancements in technology and access to information, have also had a significant impact. With more exposure to diverse viewpoints and alternative knowledge sources, students are developing critical thinking skills and are more likely to question traditional authority. This encourages teachers to engage in more open dialogues with their students, rather than relying solely on their authority.
While physical discipline is increasingly frowned upon, this doesn't mean that teachers can't maintain discipline. The focus has shifted to non-physical disciplinary methods that encourage appropriate behavior and promote a positive classroom environment. These methods could include verbal warnings, time-outs, loss of privileges, or discussions about the consequences of their actions.
In conclusion, the perceived decrease in teacher control is a result of several factors, including advancements in educational theories, a focus on student rights and autonomy, and societal changes. Even though teachers may seem to have less power, this shift is actually a reflection of a more comprehensive understanding of effective teaching practices and the importance of a supportive and respectful learning environment.
Top 3 Authoritative Reference Publications or Domain Names:
1. National Education Association (NEA) - www.nea.org
2. American Psychological Association (APA) - www.apa.org
3. U.S. Department of Education - www.ed.gov
I hope you find this information helpful. May you be blessed,
James.
Nicole Hepworth
Currently I'm a Business Manager but I used to be an Educator/Principal
3
Answers
Bellevue, Washington
Updated
Nicole’s Answer
Hello Keaton,
Melody indeed summarized it well. To add on to her insights, and strictly from a Washington State viewpoint, there have been legislative modifications that have significantly influenced how educators and administrators can react to student behavior. These alterations were driven by data that indicated a higher frequency of students of color being removed from classrooms due to behavior compared to their white counterparts. The goal was to spotlight this imbalance and aid in standardizing behavior expectations and appropriate responses.
However, the outcomes have deviated from the original intentions. When students require more extensive social, emotional, or behavioral support and there is a scarcity of resources or parental cooperation, it intensifies the hurdles adults encounter in assisting these students. Regardless, it's crucial to always focus on the purpose behind a student's behavior and what they're attempting to express through their actions. Often, if you can identify the root cause of their defensive responses - fight, flight, or freeze - you can significantly contribute to their early intervention and future success.
In essence, legislation and policies often dictate what educators can or cannot do, and the media tends to spotlight the negative aspects. Nonetheless, remember that every challenge is an opportunity for growth, and your dedication can make a real difference in these students' lives.
Melody indeed summarized it well. To add on to her insights, and strictly from a Washington State viewpoint, there have been legislative modifications that have significantly influenced how educators and administrators can react to student behavior. These alterations were driven by data that indicated a higher frequency of students of color being removed from classrooms due to behavior compared to their white counterparts. The goal was to spotlight this imbalance and aid in standardizing behavior expectations and appropriate responses.
However, the outcomes have deviated from the original intentions. When students require more extensive social, emotional, or behavioral support and there is a scarcity of resources or parental cooperation, it intensifies the hurdles adults encounter in assisting these students. Regardless, it's crucial to always focus on the purpose behind a student's behavior and what they're attempting to express through their actions. Often, if you can identify the root cause of their defensive responses - fight, flight, or freeze - you can significantly contribute to their early intervention and future success.
In essence, legislation and policies often dictate what educators can or cannot do, and the media tends to spotlight the negative aspects. Nonetheless, remember that every challenge is an opportunity for growth, and your dedication can make a real difference in these students' lives.
Emily Barbar
Student
11
Answers
Glendale, California
Updated
Emily’s Answer
I feel like teachers go through a lot and sometimes it shows. You don't know what could be going on with the teacher outside the classroom and you just see what goes on inside the four walls of the classroom. I feel like teachers will get in trouble for discipline that isn't physical once they find out from the student telling their parents and other sources like administration, counselors, etc. Then it becomes a bigger issue. I feel in terms of teachers having less power there is no definite answer to that some teachers are more strict and firm while others are more laid back. Every teacher has a different personality.
Caitlin McCann
18
Answers
Indianapolis, Indiana
Updated
Caitlin’s Answer
Hi Keaton,
From what I have noticed it is just that generations are changing. Kids nowadays do not have the same respect and regard for people that are older than them as they used to. This is likely because of a combination of reasons, from COVID to different parenting styles.
It also seems that some parents nowadays are more defensive towards their child's misbehavior. As a student teacher, my mentor had a few parents that would be emailed about their child kicking someone on the playground or wrestling in the classroom, and the parents simply would not respond. There is a lack of accountability for children from their caregivers, which is causing them to believe they can do anything they want.
I truly hope this phenomenon changes soon. Teachers already go through the ringer and do not need more disrespect from students and parents.
From what I have noticed it is just that generations are changing. Kids nowadays do not have the same respect and regard for people that are older than them as they used to. This is likely because of a combination of reasons, from COVID to different parenting styles.
It also seems that some parents nowadays are more defensive towards their child's misbehavior. As a student teacher, my mentor had a few parents that would be emailed about their child kicking someone on the playground or wrestling in the classroom, and the parents simply would not respond. There is a lack of accountability for children from their caregivers, which is causing them to believe they can do anything they want.
I truly hope this phenomenon changes soon. Teachers already go through the ringer and do not need more disrespect from students and parents.