Successful Classroom Teachers EARN the respect of students by being
CONSISTENT and HONEST in ALL student/teacher interactions! These teachers know
that their ability to manage their
classroom learning environment is founded on mutual student/teacher RESPECT.
Keep in mind that respect is not
the same as obedience. Learners might obey because they are afraid. If they
respect you, they will obey because they know you want what's best for them.
The best way to teach respect is to show respect. When a learner experiences
respect, they know what it feels like and begin to understand how important it
is. A good saying to represent respect is, "Do unto others as you would
have them do unto you." Respect is an attitude and ultimately can lead to
a learner’s success. If a learner doesn't have respect for peers, authority, or
themselves, it's almost impossible for them to succeed.
8 ways to show respect in your
classroom
1.
Be honest - If you do
something wrong, admit it and apologize.
2. Be positive - Don't embarrass, insult or make fun of any learner. Rather
compliment, encourage or motivate them.
3. Be Trusting - Let your learners make their own choices and take
responsibility for them.
4. Be fair - Listen to your learner's side of the story before
reaching a conclusion.
5. Be polite - Use "please" and "thank you" and
greet your learners when you see them.
6. Be reliable – Don’t make promises to your learners and be
consistent by showing them that you mean what you say.
7. Be a good listener – Listen to hear and not to respond
8. Make sure that you are modelling respectful behaviour. Some of
things you can do are:
-
Obey laws - Follow your
own classroom rules and the rules of the school.
-
Be caring - Show concern
for people, animals and the environment.
-
Avoid poor role models -
When you see examples of disrespect, discuss them.
-
Teach your learners to
respect themselves. Self-respect is one of the most important forms of respect.
Once we respect ourselves, it is easier to respect others.
