Learner Discipline versus Learner Freedom in Secondary Schools

Abstract

The researchers propose that student discipline in schools should be aimed at correcting student behavior rather than punishing them. The freedom of students must not lead to lawlessness in the classroom. Teachers must recognize that teaching and learning, as well as creativity, take place in a structured context. Teachers may contribute to disciplinary issues at school by demonstrating poor classroom management skills, a hostile attitude toward students, a lack of respect for instructional time, and improper behavior both within and outside the school. On the other side, due to their lack of respect for school authority, students may contribute to disciplinary issues. The sample for this study was chosen from three senior secondary schools in Namibia's Zambezi area, with a total of 60 teachers. The sample included four teacher participants from each school.