SK GUAL TO'DEH - Discipline has always been the backbone of education, shaping students into responsible, respectful, and resilient individuals. However, in today’s educational landscape, maintaining discipline has become increasingly complex. Over my 25 years of teaching, I have witnessed significant transformations in students’ behaviour, influenced by technological advancement, changing family dynamics, and evolving societal values. While discipline remains a crucial element of effective learning, how it is understood and enforced must evolve with the times.
One of the most pressing issues today is the decline in students’ respect for authority and the weakening of traditional values. Many students struggle with self-control and emotional regulation, which often leads to disruptive behaviour in the classroom. The accessibility of digital devices and social media has also contributed to shorter attention spans and increased exposure to negative influences. Teachers today face the dual challenge of managing behaviour while simultaneously nurturing motivation and engagement in a fast-changing learning environment.
Parental involvement has also shifted. In the past, parents and teachers worked hand-in-hand to instil discipline. Nowadays, some parents tend to side with their children without fully understanding the situation, undermining the teacher’s authority. This lack of cooperation often sends the wrong message to students, suggesting that their actions carry no real consequences. The erosion of mutual respect between home and school has, in many cases, weakened the foundation of student discipline.
Despite these challenges, discipline remains vital in shaping students’ character and ensuring a conducive learning environment. Education is not merely about academic achievement—it is also about forming attitudes, values, and life skills. A well-disciplined student develops self-respect, empathy, and a sense of responsibility towards others. In the modern era, discipline should not be perceived as punishment but as guidance that helps students make wise decisions and understand the impact of their actions.
To overcome today’s disciplinary challenges, schools must adopt a holistic approach. Teachers should focus on positive discipline strategies that encourage reflection and self-improvement rather than fear-based compliance. Programs that promote social-emotional learning (SEL) have proven effective in helping students manage emotions, build empathy, and resolve conflicts peacefully. At the same time, parental engagement should be strengthened through regular communication and collaboration. When parents and teachers share the same values and expectations, students are more likely to develop consistent discipline both at home and in school.
Moreover, school leaders play an essential role in fostering a culture of respect, fairness, and consistency. Discipline should be applied fairly, without bias, and every student should understand that rules are designed to protect and guide them, not to restrict their freedom. With strong leadership, dedicated teachers, and supportive parents, schools can restore discipline as a positive force that nurtures growth and character.
In conclusion, discipline in schools today faces new challenges, but it remains a timeless value in education. Through understanding, cooperation, and compassionate guidance, teachers can continue to shape disciplined, capable, and morally grounded individuals who are ready to face the future with integrity and confidence.
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