Compassion

A balanced level of compassion is key in the classroom. Like a quote in class eluded to, too much compassion creates an apathetic biggotry that requires nothing of the students, gets nothing in return, provides no challenges, lacks control and discipline, and harms students rather than help them. On the flip side, a complete lack of compassion will lead to a militant, end-of-discussion, i-don't-want-to-hear-your-story-just-do-what-you're-told, heartless reign of authority over a group of students apparently not worth any time or effort.

In sixth grade, my math teacher left for some reason and her replacement was much too compassionate. Ms. M (the replacement) didn't feel comfortable challenging the class (a higher level class) for fear that anyone might struggle. on any type assignment or quiz/test, she could be easily talked into a few extra points for no apparent reason. While it was easy to succeed in her class, I distinctly remember not learning much the last part of 6th grade. She clearly had a great passion for teaching and for kids, but without discipline and structure, that went to waste.