At first glance, you might think that they are one and the same. However, that couldn't be farther from the truth. Punishment is a band-aid solution. It doesn't work with all students and neglects the root issues of bad behaviors. Having discipline, however, demonstrates the ability to manage oneself. The learning communities we create need discipline, but they don't need punishment. Although consequences should follow unwanted behaviors, we should be sure that students are aware of the consequences that follow their choices.
Picture this:
You see one student talking to another even though you've asked for their attention twice now. You punish them by writing up both students for disrupting your instruction.
The problem? This punishment is both unfair and unprecedented. The students are unaware that their talking will result in the consequence. Secondly, although only one student is talking, both are given the same consequence. As a result, the students don't learn anything from this punishment.
To correct behaviors, educators must guide students to establish strong self-discipline. Going back to the previous scenario, keep in mind that we are all human! No one is perfect. Everyone needs a reminder to stay on track. Fortunately, that's what we teachers are for. Students need to be given clear behavioral expectations to follow with consistent consequences. Barbara Coloroso, author of "Kids are Worth It" gives an excellent explanation of the difference between punishment and discipline!
In the words of Coloroso, these terms are definitely not one and the same! Help your students to develop strong self-discipline to help your students succeed. 😄
Picture this:
You see one student talking to another even though you've asked for their attention twice now. You punish them by writing up both students for disrupting your instruction.
The problem? This punishment is both unfair and unprecedented. The students are unaware that their talking will result in the consequence. Secondly, although only one student is talking, both are given the same consequence. As a result, the students don't learn anything from this punishment.
To correct behaviors, educators must guide students to establish strong self-discipline. Going back to the previous scenario, keep in mind that we are all human! No one is perfect. Everyone needs a reminder to stay on track. Fortunately, that's what we teachers are for. Students need to be given clear behavioral expectations to follow with consistent consequences. Barbara Coloroso, author of "Kids are Worth It" gives an excellent explanation of the difference between punishment and discipline!
In the words of Coloroso, these terms are definitely not one and the same! Help your students to develop strong self-discipline to help your students succeed. 😄