25 Biggest Mistakes Teachers Make and How to Avoid Them

234 25 Biggest Mistakes Teachers Make and How to Avoid Them
Commentary
This teacher’s reaction to frustration is a character issue. To avoid situations
like this, teachers should refrain from any type of vulgar or profane behavior
and it will not become a default reaction. To maintain credibility with students,
teachers should not lie to their students. In this case, the teacher realized
that there may be serious consequences for her behavior and opted to lie
to the student. Integrity and avoidance of inappropriate behavior are important
components of professional teacher behavior.
Mistake 23: False Accusations
Teacher # 39
A Scenario of a Teacher’s Worst Treatment of a Student
It was not a student; it was my grandson that I mistreated. He was always doing something
bad and lying about it. This time he was innocent. My nephew said he broke the
VCR. I was tired of hearing him whine that he wanted to see a movie. I said if you hadn’t
broken the VCR, you could watch it. I didn’t, he said. So I spanked him for lying.
Motive Probe
39.1. Describe the problem and your specific role in it.
The VCR was broken and I spanked him.
39.2. Why did you do what you did?
I was tired that day.
39.3. What emotions or feelings were you experiencing at the time?
Anger.
39.4. Was your behavior justified? If so, why?
No.
39.5. Do you regret your action(s)?
Yes.
39.6. Do you ever think about this incident? If yes, approximately how
often since the occurrence(s)?
No.
39.7. If faced with the same or a similar situation, what would you do?
Count to 10 and walk away.