Classroom Safety

Very often when we think about safety in schools or within classrooms it is the physical safety of the environment that is refered to. An important area of safety - the emotional safety of the environment is often overlooked and its importance for learning to take place has been downplayed.

A recent article I read by Dr Jane Bluestein, made me realise this issue needs to be highlighted and addressed within the Malaysian context as well. We always hear about how the physical conditions in schools is not up to par what about the emotional aspect? This issue of emotions involves attitudes, reactions and actions of those parties involves - teachers, and students.

If you have watched the 1989 movie "Lean On Me" starring Morgan Freeman based on the experiences of an inner city school principal who was at risk of loosing his school. His task was the "clean up" the school of "filth" both physically and in the attitudes and emotions of his students and members of staff. The bottom line is, that he made no headway till he addressed the emotional security issue faced by both students and staff.

When the learners felt safe in school, they started changing their attitudes and behaviour towards teachers and one another. Part of feeling safe comes from being accepted for who they are, as individuals with potential.

Learners must learn to trust and respect each other. Once they learn to do that, they must know that the caretakers of this environment will also care for their wellbeing, their feelings and thoughts. The caretakers by their actions can show learners under their tutelage, that teachers are there for their learners, will respect and most of all listen to help learners find solutions to problems and challenges faced.

Respect and trust given, will lead to respect and trust gained. These have a causal relationship. As a teacher, let me tell you, it is never easy to be the first to show respect and trust to learners especially those who are insolent, behaviour disordered or being just plain cheeky children! Having said that, while not easy, it is possible.