Teachers have to lead and accompany the class. This is their task. They have to decide on various things and also control everything. What teachers should not do is to aim at also controlling thinking processes and personal development of their students. Especially in EDC/HRE, the teacher becomes a role model for his/her students. How does he/she deal with conflicts? What idea of people does he/ she promote? The following list gives a clue where one can position oneself. But it is clear, however, that according to learning situation, mood of the day, moments of danger or set-up of the group of students, etc., it can make sense to be more autocratic or to be more democratic. Generally it is important to note: my idea of a person as a teacher will leave an imprint on my daily work with the students.
Learning situation | ||
Rather autocratic | Me | Rather democratic |
Ruler |
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Leader |
Sharp Voice |
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Friendly voice |
Order |
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Invitation, request |
Power |
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Influence |
Pressure |
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Suggestion |
Demand of compliance |
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Winning over to co-operation |
Imposition of tasks |
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Offering of ideas |
Predominant mode of criticism |
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Frequent encouragement |
Frequent punishment |
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Frequent support and help |
“I’m telling you!” |
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“Let’s talk it over.” |
“I decide, you obey!” |
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“I make a proposal and help you to decide.” |
Sole responsibility for the group |
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Shared responsibility with and in the group |