Teaching is a multifaceted profession, with educators positioned at the nexus of numerous and often conflicting expectations. These expectations originate from students, parents, school management, regulatory bodies, and society-at-large. Understanding these diverse expectations is crucial for creating an effective educational environment. This paper explores the myriad expectations placed on teachers, supported by data and insights from the Indian education system and comparisons with global standards.
Students expectations of students
Students expect teachers to deliver engaging, informative, and accessible lessons and double up as mentors who provide emotional guidance and are fair at the same time critical. According to a survey by the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT), 78% of Indian students reported that they value teachers who can explain complex concepts clearly and relate them to real-life situations. Schools implementing interactive learning methods have reported higher student engagement and satisfaction.
Parents expectations
Top priority is academic excellence, safety and discipline and regular updates on academics and behaviour of their wards. A study by the Azim Premji Foundation found that 85% of parents in India expect frequent communication from teachers about their child’s progress. Schools that use digital platforms to update parents regularly see higher parental satisfaction and student performance.
What school management looks from teachers
School managements want teachers to engage in continuous professional development. Adhere to school policies and be accountable for student performance metrics. Research from the Indian Institute of Management suggests that schools with structured professional development programs have better student outcomes and those schools who invest in training programmes improve teaching quality.
Expectations of teachers by regulators
Strict adherence to the prescribed curriculum, compliance to standards set by educational boards and accurate record-keeping and reporting of student data. According to the Ministry of Education, 90% of schools report compliance with regulatory standards as a top priority. Schools that consistently meet regulatory standards often receive better ratings and more funding.
Expectations of teachers by society-at-large
Society expects teachers to uphold and impart moral values, take active part in community development and extracurricular activities and provide lifelong learning and continuous improvement. Several surveys show that 70% of the Indian populace views teachers as primary influencers of societal values.
The challenges teachers face is the burden of sky-high expectations, from different stake holders, lack of adequate resources and high workload. A report by the National Sample Survey Office (NSSO) indicates that 65% of teachers in India feel overburdened.
Opportunities for teachers
Schools adopting blended learning models have seen improved student outcomes and teacher satisfaction.
The Indian Education System: A Comparative Perspective
Expectations in the Indian Context
In India, the expectations of teachers are particularly pronounced due to the diverse socio-economic landscape and the rapidly evolving educational policies. The Right to Education Act (RTE), for instance, mandates free and compulsory education for children aged 6 to 14, placing additional responsibilities on teachers to ensure that no child is left behind.
Global Comparisons
In Finland, teachers are highly respected and enjoy autonomy. In Japan, emphasis is on discipline, respect, community values and the teacher plays a huge role. In the USA, teachers face diverse expectations from standardized test scores to inclusivity and special education, similar to the Indian context but with more resources at their disposal.
Theories Supporting Teacher Expectations
Constructivist Theory
Constructivist theories, particularly those of Piaget and Vygotsky, support the idea that teachers should act as facilitators of learning. This aligns with the expectation that teachers should engage students actively in the learning process, making education more meaningful and effective.
Behavioral Theory
Bandura’s Social Learning Theory posits that teachers serve as role models, influencing students’ behavior and attitudes. This theory justifies societal expectations for teachers to be ethical and moral exemplars.
Humanistic Theory
Humanistic theories by Maslow and Rogers emphasize the importance of emotional support and self-actualization. These theories underpin the expectation that teachers should provide a nurturing environment conducive to students’ overall development.
Key Challenges and Strategies
Balancing Conflicting Expectations: Demand for high academic achievement versus the need to support students’ emotional well-being.
Resource Constraints: In many Indian schools, especially in rural areas, teachers face significant resource constraints. Leveraging technology, such as digital classrooms and online resources, can help mitigate these challenges.
Workload and Stress: High workload and stress levels are major issues for teachers. Schools can adopt measures like providing adequate preparation time, employing support staff, and promoting a collaborative work culture to alleviate these pressures.
Opportunities for Teachers
Professional Growth
Continuous professional development opportunities can help teachers stay updated with the latest educational trends and methodologies. Programs like the National Initiative for School Heads’ and Teachers’ Holistic Advancement (NISHTHA) in India aim to enhance teacher capabilities.
Innovation in teaching
Adopting innovative teaching methods, such as project-based learning, flipped classrooms, and the integration of ICT (Information and Communication Technology) in education, can make learning more engaging and effective.
Community Impact
Teachers have the unique opportunity to impact their communities positively. By involving students in community service projects and fostering a sense of social responsibility, teachers can contribute to community development.
Examples
Kendriya Vidyalayas (Central Schools) in India are known for their high standards of education and holistic approach. Finland’s education system, renowned for its success, places a strong emphasis on teacher autonomy and respect.
Analysis of Expectations
Students thrive in environments where learning is interactive and engaging. Techniques such as flipped classrooms, where students review content at home and engage in activities in class, have shown significant improvements in understanding and retention.
Teachers are expected to connect theoretical knowledge with real- world applications. It enhances critical thinking skills.
Establishing mentorship programs where teachers act as mentors can significantly impact students’ emotional and academic growth. Providing access to counseling services within schools can help address students’ emotional and psychological needs.
Implementing clear and transparent grading systems helps build trust and ensures fairness in evaluations.
Continuous feedback helps students understand their strengths and areas for improvement, fostering a growth mindset.
Parental Expectations:
Regular Progress Reports, encourage parents to be involved in school activities and decision-making processes, ensure safe physical and emotional environment. Have clear policies on bullying, harassment, and safety protocols, regularly. Train teachers in classroom management techniques to tackle behavourial issues. Conduct parent-teacher meetings regularly and update parents on school policies and events and changes in academic calendar.
Management Expectations:
Management should invest in regular professional development programs, provide incentives to teachers to pursue higher education. Schools should have clear, written guidelines regarding teaching methods, disciplinary measures, and administrative duties, ensuring teachers know what is expected of them. Have regular audits.
Student Outcomes
Utilizing data to track student performance and identify trends can help teachers and management develop targeted interventions. Collaborative goal setting for student outcomes fosters a sense of ownership and accountability.
Societal Expectations
Incorporating values education into the curriculum can help students develop a strong ethical foundation. Programs like Character Education Partnership (CEP) in the USA provide frameworks that can be adapted.
Encouraging students and teachers to participate in community
service projects, partner with NGOs and local businesses.
Lifelong learning advocates
Establish Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) within schools. Encourages collaborative learning among teachers, fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
Conclusion
By addressing these expectations comprehensively and collaboratively, the educational system can support teachers in their crucial role, ensuring they can provide high-quality education and foster the holistic development of their students.
Recommendations
- Enhanced Teacher Training
- Resource Allocation
- Promote work-life balance for teachers
- Encourage teachers to engage with the community.
