Transactional correctness means doing the right thing as is appropriate to the situation, and not what suits our convenience. To scold a child for not understanding a concept is as absurd as rewarding one for cheating on a test. Fairness is the golden rule of discipline just as honesty is the golden rule in communication. Children don’t complain about strict or firm teachers as long as the teacher is being fair.
When a teacher is tired after a long hot day in school she is more likely to let children get away with not following rules. Equally importantly, we let our own prejudices color our judgment. Often a teacher will act in favor of a student based on her opinion of the student rather than the facts before her.
In schools ‘good’ students often get away with things and their behavior is explained by “That is not really like him”. At the same time children with a reputation for mischief are read the riot act for the smallest infraction. If our intention is to help children by correcting their behavior we must act consistently with our rules and policies regardless of the people involved.
The power of praise is a thoroughly underutilized practice in schools. Teachers are often quick to point out mistakes and correct children who fall short of their expectations but few look for opportunities to “catch them doing it right”. Acknowledging a weak student who has made an effort; even if he falls short of our standard criteria, will help him try that much harder the next time.
The key is the teacher’s intent. Is the teacher there to collect a pay check or is he there to make a contribution to the students entrusted in his care.