by Todd Pheifer

Created on: June 21, 2009   Last Updated: July 08, 2009

A place like no other

The classroom is a unique environment as the instructor is charged with developing competencies in a group of people who may or may not want to be there. In today's modern society, there are also expectations as to how that education is administered, and many people expect a definitively relational aspect between teacher and student. Of course, there are boundaries to that relationship and teachers must walk a fine line so that their "connections" with students do not cross certain lines.

Who is the boss?

The challenge lies in the fact that the teacher is still an authority figure, and while a rapport can be built, it is usually difficult for relationship between student and teacher to function like a "normal" friendship. Still, there are ways for both parties to appreciate the contribution and role of the other. Sometimes respect is more effective than simple friendship because it broadens the appreciation of the knowledge that can be offered. Therefore, here are a few thoughts on how to develop a culture of mutual respect in the classroom.

Expectations

Mutual respect often starts with proper expectations. Each teacher must articulate what they expect from the students in terms of behavior and general output. Where teachers struggle is when they are too confrontational at first, or when they take the opposite approach and appear too timid. In addition, students may not respect the teacher that says one thing, but then demonstrates an expectation that is obviously different. Consistency is often the best approach, though the teacher must maintain a certain level of flexibility, depending on the dynamic of the class.

Dialogue

The teacher can also create mutual respect by engaging in ongoing dialogue. Overall, the teacher does have to communicate knowledge, which means that they must sometimes play the role of "sage on the stage." However, they can also make a concerted effort to get to know their students as well as work to find common interests. Again, the teacher has to be careful about trying too hard to be "one of the gang." Despite some commonality in terms of interest, the teacher and students are still in very different phases of life. It is the rare occasion that the students will see the teacher as being someone who is "connected" to their age group.

You watch your phraseology

Related to dialogue is the issue of language and popular culture. Some teachers try to reach out to their students by using the current

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