Gone are the days when students and teachers had a very formal relationship, and the former failed to open up to teachers. With the change in education systems and perspectives, teachers and students have started developing stronger bonds, which is considered mutually beneficial. Whether in a high school or kindergarten in Singapore, developing an effective student-teacher relationship is highly emphasized to bring out the best in the former. Read on to explore some of the most effective ways to foster this relationship. 

Do not see yourself in a superior position to students.

Most teachers fail to see them at par with students. Their knowledge, experience, and expertise make them feel superior to students. However, such an approach can be detrimental to the students and slow down their development or learning ability. Teachers must ensure students consider them as guides and friends. Such an approach is only possible when teachers consider students as their equals. 

Try to understand your students.

The duty of teachers does not end with delivering class notes and lectures. Instead, they must understand each student and learn their strengths and weaknesses. Remember, students, especially teenagers, might face several changes or issues they need to discuss. Understanding their perspectives or problems can help you strengthen your relationship with them. Such bonding can also help students perform better in class and develop confidence. 

Accept students the way they are

Partiality is a strict no if you try to develop an effective relationship with students. Remember, each student is unique, and so are their strengths and weaknesses. Teachers must accept students’ flaws and try to correct them in a friendly way. Try to talk to them about their problems in class and resolve them without conflict. These activities can have several benefits on students’ personalities. Hence, most Singapore schools include counseling classes in the secondary school fees Singapore to ensure students can open up about their challenges. 

Make learning fun

Teachers must know to make the classroom environment fun and engaging. Laughing with the students or reading a story can help you develop an effective relationship with them. Remember, students are not particularly fond of strict teachers. You might face challenges in class if you are too rigid or refuse to listen to the students. Thus, you must engage in several conversations and make the learning process fun to ensure students participate adequately. 

Make sure students are not afraid of you.

Most teachers fail to distinguish between fear and respect. While the latter helps in developing a positive relationship between teachers and students, anxiety can ruin the same. Teachers must ensure they are respected in class. However, that does not mean scaring students or punishing them. A friendly teacher receives more respect from students than a strict and rigid one. 

Conclusion

If you struggle to develop an effective relationship with your students, it is time to check your behavior and adopt some of the hacks mentioned above. Remember, you can bring out the best in students only if you develop a strong relationship with them.