Our focus for this semester is the importance of “Discipline”
We need to understand that Discipline arises from love, is crucially important and needs to be seen as positive. There are at least three considerations:
- How do we create a disciplined environment where the shalom nature of community can flourish?
- How can we firmly, graciously and lovingly deal with people and situations that detract from that desired shalom?
- How do we encourage thinking, attitudes and practices where each of us becomes committed to positive culture enhancement in all times and places?
Care Conversations 1 – Confessions of a Beginning Teacher
I’m guessing that the confession that I’m about to make may also be true for many other teachers around the world.
My first two years of teaching were a nightmare!
They were a nightmare for me, for my students and, if I hadn’t sought to hide it, for the school community of which I was a part of.
My problem was that I did not have a clue about discipline and classroom management. My rapidly developing embarrassment about this problem meant that I had no confidence to seek help, and my pride refused to publicly admit my deficiency. Or was it fear of judgement by fellow teachers, parents… everyone?
I began my teaching career steeped in idealism but deficient in competence and understanding.
I had requested to be sent to the most “difficult” school in the district – before I knew THE Saviour, I had a “saviour complex”. All that these badly behaved students needed was someone who loved them, cared for them and understood them. Nice idea; but an idea that simply didn’t work. Why? Because I interpreted “love” to mean indulgence, overlooking misbehaviour, and being a non-judgemental friend. Fundamentally, I was driven by a desire that my students would like me. Surely when they saw my depth of kindness, they would become perfect human beings! I was so wrong. My classroom was a “warzone” with no sign of a cease-fire!
Halfway through the year, I knew that my approach was all wrong. So, driven mainly by self-preservation rather than careful thought, I completely U-turned my approach. I would set rules and ardently police them. I would impose a rigid framework, with harsh consequences for any infringements.
Did it work? No, of course not. My students almost ridiculed me, because my new approach was so counter to what they had experienced before. I have never looked forward to the end of a year so desperately!
If you can identify with my dilemma, or you know of someone who is struggling with similar issues, or you just want to think through the meaning and purpose of discipline, come with me on a journey of discovery over the next few weeks.
Blessings
Brian