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More and more parents are calling for ‘Old School’ discipline in classrooms.
The debate over punishment in Australian classrooms has intensified; parents, educators and academics emphasized the importance of ‘old school’ practice. How to deal with disruptive behavior in students.
The debate was sparked by a Senate inquiry into school discipline, which called for a return to traditional disciplinary methods as the best solution. These guidelines, now implemented nationally, advocate teaching students basic manners such as entering classrooms, sitting properly, and asking questions respectfully. To support the learning process, it is recommended to place desks facing the teacher.
In addition, students are encouraged to practice ‘super walking’, a method that aims to promote healthy walking throughout the school. The aim of these measures is to instill discipline and promote a positive learning environment.
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The need for such measures stems from research conducted by the Australian Educational Research Service (AERO) which found that teachers spend approximately 20% of their time dealing with disruptive behavior in the classroom. AERO CEO Dr. Jenny Donavan emphasized the connection between school behavior and academic achievement, emphasizing the importance of explicitly teaching students appropriate behavior.
Former teacher turned CEO, Dr. Donavan emphasized the importance of consistency in teaching and practicing these behaviors during student travels. She emphasized that these skills are essential for effective classroom management.
Parents also expressed their opinions on this issue, some of them said that this issue did not provide sufficient discipline at home. Others advocated for stricter disciplinary measures in schools, seeing it as a necessary step to solve the problem of student rebellion and disobedience.
Former director Adam Voigt joined the discussion and acknowledged that the problem was serious. Emphasizing the need for continuity in schools, he warned against relying solely on punishment, advocating a balanced approach incorporating modern teaching methods and traditional disciplines.
As the discussion continues, it is clear that there is no one-size-fits-all solution to addressing undesirable behavior in the classroom. The key is to find a balance between modern teaching techniques and traditional disciplinary strategies while promoting supportive learning that fosters respect and responsibility in students. Collaboration and open dialogue will be critical in shaping
education in Australia as educators, parents and policymakers navigate this complex area.
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