Guidance and Discipline: It is clear that effective teaching cannot occur without some form of classroom discipline. Interestingly, however, we often notice its absence far more than its presence. Teaching in a disorderly classroom is exhausting, frustrating, and ultimately unproductive. Yet, what exactly is this quality called discipline, which some teachers seem naturally to possess?
Different educators have defined discipline in various ways:
- As training that fosters self-control and organized behavior.
- As submission to rules or authority.
- As corrective action or punishment for misbehavior.
While these definitions capture certain aspects of discipline, they overlook a crucial component: its educational and guidance purpose. In a classroom context, discipline should not merely control behavior; it should help students understand the connection between their actions and their goals.
Discipline is not an objective in itself. Rather, it is a tool to help students act thoughtfully and responsibly. The aim is not to enforce obedience through fear, but to cultivate actions guided by principles, values, and empathy for others.
