Teachers as Contributors to School Guidance

Teachers are widely recognized as the most influential guidance personnel in schools because of their continuous and direct interaction with students. No other staff member has such frequent and sustained contact, which allows teachers to observe and understand students’ academic, social, and emotional needs.

However, many teachers feel they lack adequate preparation to fully assume this role. This sense of uncertainty can be addressed through in-service training that equips teachers with updated guidance information and practical techniques. When teachers feel confident in their guidance abilities, they can integrate this work seamlessly into their regular teaching responsibilities rather than seeing it as an additional task.

Responsibilities of Teachers in Guidance

A teacher engaged in guidance work should be able to recognize individual student problems within the classroom and approach them with sensitivity and understanding. Collaboration with fellow teachers enhances the effectiveness of guidance, allowing a holistic view of each student. Important areas of knowledge for a teacher include:

• Test results, achievements, and academic performance
• Aptitudes, interests, and temperament
• Students’ educational plans and career aspirations
• Likes, dislikes, frustrations, and social adjustment

By understanding these factors, teachers can prevent maladjustments and foster positive development. Teachers in academic subjects, as well as those in Physical Education, Yoga, or other activity-based courses, often develop strong rapport with students, providing a foundation for guidance.

Dual Roles of Teachers in Guidance

Teachers play two essential roles in school guidance:

1. Classroom Counsellor: Helping students grow personally, socially, and academically, fostering their strengths and addressing challenges.
2. Vocational Guide: Assisting students in exploring career options and making informed decisions about their occupational goals.

Cooperation with Specialist Guidance Personnel

Teachers support professional guidance workers in three important ways:

1. Identifying students who may require specialist help
2. Providing relevant information about the student to the specialist
3. Assisting in implementing the specialist’s recommendations for individuals or groups

Opportunities for Teachers to Provide Guidance

Teachers can integrate guidance into daily teaching through various approaches:

1. Building personal relationships with students to understand their unique needs
2. Encouraging self-confidence and competence
3. Customizing instruction to suit individual learning styles
4. Guiding students in daily learning tasks
5. Sharing and clarifying educational goals
6. Facilitating discussions on common challenges
7. Following up on students’ academic, social, and personal needs

In essence, teachers act as the primary support system for student development, guiding them academically, socially, and emotionally while maintaining strong connections with other guidance professionals to ensure comprehensive support.