The Impact of Strict and Friendly Teachers on Student Success

Is a strict or a friendly teacher more effective in fostering academic success? Personal experiences often highlight the contrasting impacts of these two teaching styles. Here, we examine the sentiments and implications of strict and friendly teachers.

Strict Teachers and Academic Success

From a psychological and academic standpoint, strict teachers can play a pivotal role in shaping student success. Many students, like myself, have thrived under the discipline and high expectations set by strict teachers. Such teachers create a structure that demands not only hard work but also adherence to strict rules and guidelines. This environment pushes students to perform to their full potential.

For instance, in 7th grade, I had a teacher who, upon failure in the weekly word wealth tests, administered a paddle as a form of discipline. This method, while harsh, instilled a sense of responsibility and seriousness in the subject matter. As a result, I studied diligently and only failed once, emphasizing the effectiveness of strict accountability.

Another example is a teacher who threatened to apply his paddle to my butt if I did not improve my work. This intimidating measure, although extreme, played a significant part in ensuring I met higher standards and worked diligently to avoid facing the consequence.

Benefits and Drawbacks of Strict Teachers

While strict teachers are crucial in maintaining discipline and ensuring high standards, it is important to balance their methods. Rigorous teaching demands are vital, but too strict a discipline can be detrimental to the emotional and mental well-being of students. Such a strict approach can stifle the fun of learning and create unnecessary stress, leading to potentially negative outcomes.

A harmonious balance is necessary. Teachers must remain in control to ensure order and respect within the classroom, yet they should also incorporate a sense of warmth and approachability to foster a positive learning environment. For instance, breaking the ice with a joke or a casual conversation can make the learning process more enjoyable without undermining their authority.

Why Friendly Teachers Are Still Important

On the other hand, friendly teachers contribute significantly to creating a safe and welcoming learning atmosphere. At my former school, a very unconventional setup built on a patch of land once infested with nettles and brambles, there was a strong tradition of staff and students working together to clear the grounds. This camaraderie fostered a sense of unity and respect amongst both staff and students.

For example, the Chemistry mistress, who had to be firm due to the potentially dangerous nature of her subject, still managed to relate and connect with the senior girls. This balance between discipline and a supportive personality made the learning experience more engaging and effective. However, a Geography teacher who threatened to “take the bounce out of us” failed to achieve her desired outcome. Her strict and unfriendly approach alienated the students, leading to a less productive and enjoyable learning experience.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the effectiveness of a teacher lies in their ability to strike a balance between strict discipline and a friendly demeanor. Teachers must control the classroom while also creating a positive and supportive atmosphere. This dual approach ensures academic success without compromising the well-being of the students.

Keywords

teacher effectiveness, student discipline, teaching methods