25 Biggest Mistakes Teachers Make and How to Avoid Them

194 25 Biggest Mistakes Teachers Make and How to Avoid Them
Teacher # 3
A Scenario of a Teacher’s Worst Treatment of a Student
When I first began teaching at a small school in East Texas, paddling was the
accepted method of discipline. I was appalled by the idea, but by Thanksgiving, I
asked my husband to make a paddle for me. I practiced on a blanket that was thrown
over a clothesline. I am not proud that I participated in this form of discipline.
Motive Probe
This teacher did not respond to the motive probe.
Commentary
This teacher’s guilt and remorse are obvious in her last statement. Corporal
punishment, although still legal in some states, is the least desirable form of
discipline. To avoid resorting to paddling, this teacher could have ignored
the actions of her peers and acquainted herself with other, more acceptable
forms of discipline. She should consult successful veteran teachers in her
school district to find out what they do in lieu of paddling.
Mistake 2: Physical Aggression
Teacher # 4
A Scenario of a Teacher’s Worst Treatment of a Student
One of my students went to bite another student in the back. When I saw her, I hit
her on top of the head and yelled, “NO”! I quietly looked around to see if anyone saw
me. She was screaming from the blow. I tried to calm her down so no one would ask
me why she was crying.
Motive Probe
4.1. Describe the problem and your specific role in it.
I was stopping a child from biting another.
4.2. Why did you do what you did?
It was a reaction.
4.3. What emotions or feelings were you experiencing at the time?
None.
4.4. Was your behavior justified? If so, why?
Yes, I needed her to stop because she kept biting the other kids.