Importance of Teacher Student Relationships

A teacher’s role is extremely important in a student’s life. A teacher is like a candle which burns itself to give life to its students. The performance of a student is largely dependent upon the teacher. The relationship between a teacher and a student plays a major role in the academic performance of the student. The more a student likes a teacher, the more they feel motivated and encouraged. It is usually observed that if a student doesn’t like the teacher, they do not feel comfortable and don’t like getting involved in the classroom activities. It is immensely important that the teachers and students share a healthy relationship amongst themselves. Some teachers who shared their experiences stated that it is not always in the teacher’s hands to be likeable or not. Sometimes it depends upon the subject more and not on the teacher’s behaviour. For example: students usually fear the idea of studying mathematics. It automatically resists them from getting attached with the teacher. On the basis of the teachers’ experiences, some of the best ways of becoming a popular and likeable teacher are as follows:

(i) Don’t frustrate students with weak teaching practices – Usually teachers focus too much upon their targets.  They focus on the study materials and try to cover all the content that they have been told to. They often forget to realise the frustration of the students which ultimately makes them dis interested in the classroom teaching. The students get de moralised and often give up.

(ii) Listen, listen, and listen – It is very important for each and every one to express his / her view, especially for students. Being a student means bearing a lot of pressure and stress. It is very necessary for the students to share their feelings and views with the teacher so that the teachers easily understand the difficulties and the problems that the student faces in the classroom. Without being heard it becomes very frustrating for the students to bear the pressure in life.

(iii) Deepen my content knowledge – Students always look for their role models in their teachers. They expect their teachers to be highly knowledgeable, intelligent and smart. For earning the respect in the eyes of the students, a teacher must be knowledgeable and intellectual.

Other than the pointers stated above, there are numerous other ways in which a teacher can improve his/ her likeability amongst his/ her students. Indeed, a student’s achievements are highly dependent upon their relationship with the teacher. An easy going and friendly teacher also means, better doubt resolution and problem solving for the students.

By: Anuja Arora

Content: https://www.middleweb.com/39540/how-do-i-strengthen-my-student-relationships/