The role of a teacher in any student’s life can not be emphasized enough, as it is as important as the role usually played by the parents, because in modern times, children get admitted to School in the formative years of their age and they learn basic life skills from their teachers and unconsciously try to imitate them. And in higher education too, although it is not talked about much, mentors play a very crucial role in shaping the future of researchers and academics and help them choose a career path that will unleash the hidden potential of the students. Hence, the Student-Teacher Relationship carries the utmost significance as far as the learning and the growth of the student are concerned, and it should be given the kind of attention it deserves if we are really interested in developing individuals who are equipped with modern tools and critical thinking and knowledge development. It can also be regarded as the most influential factor in the learning journey of any individual.
Talking about Pakistan, the Student-Teacher relationship is often misunderstood and ignored as there is no mechanism in place to bridge the gaps between students and teachers. Often in government and public institutions, students are treated as entities and subjects to be taught only discipline through strict punishments without taking their subjective experience into consideration. We universities and educational institutions just focus on managing the affairs of the students, and instead of making children feel safe, they end up widening the existing gap between teachers and students.
A teacher who takes the time to build a relationship with their students can better understand their strengths and weaknesses. This allows them to tailor their teaching approach to the individual needs of each student, resulting in better academic outcomes. For instance, a teacher who knows that a student struggles with a particular concept can take a different approach to teach the concept, making it more accessible to the student.
A positive student-teacher relationship can also influence a student’s motivation to learn. A teacher who is passionate about their subject and is invested in their student’s success can inspire students to take an interest in the subject. In contrast, a teacher who is disinterested and distant can make students feel disconnected from the subject, resulting in a lack of motivation to learn.
Moreover, a positive student-teacher relationship can have a significant impact on a student’s overall development. Teachers serve as role models for their students, and their behavior and attitude can shape the students’ values, beliefs, and attitudes. A teacher who models positive behaviors and values can help students develop their social skills, such as communication, empathy, and teamwork.
Additionally, a positive student-teacher relationship can help students feel supported and valued. Teachers who show an interest in their students’ personal lives can create a sense of belonging in the classroom, making students feel more connected to the learning environment. This, in turn, can have a positive impact on their mental health and emotional wellbeing.
In contrast, a negative student-teacher relationship can have a detrimental effect on a student’s academic performance and personal development. A teacher who is disengaged, unapproachable, or critical can make students feel unsupported and undervalued. This can result in a lack of motivation to learn, poor academic performance, and negative emotional outcomes such as stress, anxiety, and depression.
Furthermore, a negative student-teacher relationship can lead to disciplinary issues in the classroom. A teacher who does not have a positive relationship with their students may struggle to maintain classroom management and discipline. This can result in disruptive behavior, poor classroom performance, and a breakdown in the learning environment.
Strategies to Build a Positive Student-Teacher Relationship:
Despite the challenges faced by teachers in Pakistan, there are strategies that can be employed to develop positive relationships with their students. These strategies include:
- Getting to Know Each Student: Teachers should take the time to get to know each student individually. This can be achieved by having one-on-one conversations with students and asking about their interests and hobbies.
- Encouraging Student Participation: Teachers should create a classroom environment that encourages student participation. This can be achieved by giving students opportunities to express their opinions, ask questions, and share their ideas.
- Providing Positive Feedback: Teachers should provide positive feedback to their students regularly. This can help to build self-esteem and confidence in their abilities.
- Being Available: Teachers should make themselves available to their students outside of class. This can be achieved by holding office hours, responding to emails promptly, and being willing to meet with students one-on-one.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the relationship between students and teachers is a crucial factor in student academic success. In Pakistan, teachers face several challenges when it comes to building positive relationships with their students. Despite these challenges, there are strategies that teachers can employ to develop positive relationships with their students. By getting to know each student, encouraging student participation, providing positive feedback, and being available, teachers can create a positive learning environment that fosters academic success. It is essential for teachers in Pakistan to recognize the importance of positive student-teacher relationships and work to develop such relationships with their students.
