p. 26 | Talk on Discipline

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D.C. · Apr 1, 1909

Talk on Discipline

ACTIVITY largely initiated by the pupils, and order which is self-sustaining (to which the class gives intelligent and full obedience), are the ideal to be striven for. But this can not be secured in a day. Rigid discipline is better than none; and freedom can be given only as pupils prove their right to it.

Disorderly, ill-mannered, or impudent conduct must not be tolerated. Teachers who fail to deal promptly and effectively with such cases will be relieved of their classes. No one who is a poor disciplinarian can by any possibility be a good teacher.

The ability to discipline easily is usually dependent upon the ability to teach well. Discipline is also made easier by attending scrupulously to the many small things that make up class conduct. Remember the following points in this connection:—

Do not permit conduct which interferes with the work of the class; no one can regulate disorder. Do not permit pupils to divide their attention between class work and the manipulation of knives, pencils, and the like.

Protect furniture, books, maps, etc., from vandal knives and pencils.

Remember that lack of absolute fidelity in carrying out well-known principles of government in passing pupils to the board, in collecting or distributing materials, and the like, affects the entire conduct and tone of your work; so that these neglected matters cause more worry and fatigue than the whole burden of your work. Have a plan for everything.—Greeley (Colo.) Bulletin.