What is listed as the biggest problem teachers face? It is discipline in the classroom. What is discipline? Actually, as defined in the dictionary, discipline is a course of study. When discipline comes up in the classroom, it is usually in reference to youngsters who do not wish to comply. Now that we know something of the development of youngsters and human nature, it is not difficult to see that nearly every child has a sense of entitlement. And goes through periods of time, during growth, when the self and autonomy are a very strong push. Of course, the desire to be liked and to belong is also a part of our nature.

In essence, part of teaching is learning how to support youngsters as they learn to honor their own needs without distressing others. If we see power and control in this fashion, then classroom management is far different from a boss in the front of the room. It underscores the importance of helping youngsters help themselves. It explicates the connection between content dissemination and helping youngsters become part of a learning community.

It does not provide a recipe for each situation when a youngster wants personal gratification, but it provides parameters for supporting our balancing act as we help the youngster gain self control and learn to value the needs of others as well as self. It gives us a sort of litmus test to determine when a youngster will need help reigning self in and when the community needs to accommodate and support the child's special needs.

Let's begin with a whirlwind check on some of the most famous statements about power and control. At the end of the quotations, there will be a reference list for more in depth reading options.

Next Page

Return to Module Three Menu