Mutual Respect in Class (draft)

Student A: ‘You make so much noise!’

Student B: ‘Are you serious?’

Student A: ‘Yes.’

Student B keeps quiet.

Teacher: ‘Some students are responsive, some students aren't. It doesn't matter...’

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You may think that the above situation happens between two school kids in an ordinary class. Surprisingly, I witnessed this in a master level class on research methodology for my doctoral study. Student A was an academic department head while Student B a secondary school principal. (The principal murmured to himself as a way to respond what the teacher said.) The situation was quite embarrassing indeed.

Once the break, the principal took the initiative to invite the head to the corridor outside the classroom for a friendly talk. They both apologized to each other, and sincerely exchanged their views...

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This story teaches us:

1. Students have different styles. Mutual respect is important.

2. For students, you may talk to your classmates privately and promptly for resolving dissatisfaction.

3. For teachers, we need to know how to handle such embarrassing situations instantly without affecting classroom teaching and student relationship.