Student-Teacher Relastionships

In another study done in 2002 it was recognized that the inherent qualities of student-teacher relationship (caring, knowing, trust and mutual respect) and a teacher’s rapport with students were affirmed and supported to achieve their best. An earlier study done in 2001 showed that classroom can become supportive spaces where students can engage in academic and socially productive ways. The study also revealed that students who had positive relationship with their teacher were more willing to take on academic challenges and work on their social-emotional development.

Successful teachers are those that have the ability to maximize the learning potential of all students in their class. Developing a positive student-teacher relationship is a fundamental aspect of quality teaching and student learning. Positive student-teacher relationships promote a sense of school belonging and encourages student to participate co-operatively. Students develop confidence to experiment and succeed in an environment where they are not restricted by the fear of failure. Teachers are able to assist students with motivation and goal setting and students can turn to them for advice and guidance.

Research on student-teacher relationships point to how a positive relationship can have good social and academic outcomes. In 2015 a researcher identified a number of influences related to effective learning and achievement. Some of these influences included teaching strategies, classroom discussions, classroom cohesion, teacher expectation, teacher immediacy, teacher credibility and classroom behavior.

Establishing a positive and supportive classroom environment, combined with productive relationship between students and teachers will provide a platform in which students are encouraged and motivated to grow both creativity levels amongst students. The impact of student-teacher relationships upon students mental health should not be ignored. It is through that the risk of young people struggling with mental illness can be diminished with the help of a support framework. Teachers are in a position to act as a powerful and effective means of support and encouragement when this may not be always available in the home environment. There are many different ways teachers can employ to build positive relationships with their students. Some suggestions are given below and it may be good to reflect on these and think of some more.

1. Teachers should provide or creates a structured space. The majority of students respond positively to a structured environment. Teachers should explain clear expectations to their students. Rules and regulations must be sensible and constantly enforced. In these situations a students’ trust in their teacher will increase and they will understand that their teacher has their best interest at heart. 2. They teach with enthusiasm and passion. 3. They display a positive attitude. 4. They make learning fun. The creation of an enjoyable learning environment encourages students’ attendance and participation. 5. They show an interest in the students’ life outside the classroom. Teachers should take a genuine interest in the well being of their students. 6. They treat students with respect. A teacher who does will experience reciprocal respect from the students. 7. They create a secure and safe environment for students. Teachers need to set expectations where students do not criticize, bully or intimidate each other.

Developing a positive student-teacher relationship takes significant time and effort however the benefits on both students and teachers are immeasurable. Academic excellence is important, however we must aim to achieve much more to empower our students to change the world.