Can You Rely on a Teacher Who Does Not Practice What He Teaches?

The quote 'A teacher demonstrates by practicing and a student learns by watching' from the HVPE course, Human Values and Professional Ethics, underscores the essential nature of a teacher's personal example. This principle extends beyond personal conduct to the overall quality of teaching. In this article, we will explore the importance of a teacher practicing what they preach, as exemplified by a well-known story from the life of Ramakrishna Paramahamsa. We will also discuss the implications of this principle in modern education and its impact on student learning.

H1: The Importance of Walking the Talk in Education

The statement, 'Without that the fundamental definition itself fails,' highlights the critical role that a teacher's actions play in shaping their students' values and understanding. A teacher’s ability to effectively communicate and inspire their students depends on their own personal practices and beliefs. Just as a seed cannot grow without being planted, a teacher’s words must be backed by action to truly influence and educate.

From Theory to Practice: A Lesson from Ramakrishna Paramahamsa

One of the most compelling stories illustrating this principle comes from the life of Ramakrishna Paramahamsa. A parent approached the great sage for advice on how to encourage their child to stop consuming sweets. Paramahamsa did not immediately impose his will but instead took several weeks to demonstrate the power of personal practice and discipline. He explained, 'I am also fond of sweets. And it took me these many days to control myself from eating sweets. Without practice, we should not advice.'

This narrative reflects the essence of the principle: teachers who do not practice what they teach may lose the authority and credibility required to influence their students positively. Students are keen observers and are more likely to be persuaded by actions than mere words.

Professional Standards vs. Personal Beliefs

While the principle 'practice what you teach' is generally accepted, there are instances where curricular content can be separate from personal beliefs. A prominent science teacher at our school once expressed her personal views on evolution, stating, 'I don’t believe in all that crap. I only teach it because I have to.' Despite this stance, her students were still able to pass their exams and learn effectively, indicating that strict adherence to a particular belief does not always hinder teaching efficacy. The curriculum, especially in schools, is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of various subjects, rather than focusing on personal beliefs.

However, this does not negate the importance of a teacher's moral and ethical conduct. For instance, if a teacher espouses the value of honesty but is found to be dishonest in their personal life, this can undermine their credibility and the students' trust. Students are extremely perceptive and can easily spot inconsistencies between a teacher's words and actions. Therefore, it is crucial for teachers to align their personal practices with their professional ideologies.

Building Trust and Reliability

Ultimately, the success of a teacher in influencing their students hinges on their ability to create a sense of trust and reliability. A teacher who consistently demonstrates the values they promote, such as integrity, empathy, and dedication, inspires students to adopt these qualities. Conversely, a teacher who fails to walk the talk may struggle to maintain students' respect and confidence in their teaching.

Here are some key steps teachers can take to practice what they teach:

Self-reflection: Regularly assess and refine one's personal practices and beliefs to ensure they align with teaching values. Modeling: Use everyday interactions and lessons to demonstrate the values and behaviors expected of students. Consistency: Make a conscious effort to be consistent in actions and words to build long-term trust with students. Engagement: Involve students in discussions about the importance of values and behaviors, encouraging them to reflect on their own practices.

By following these guidelines, teachers can establish a strong foundation of trust and reliability, making them more effective educators and role models for their students.

Conclusion

Teachers hold a significant role in shaping the values and behaviors of their students. They must not only impart knowledge but also serve as living examples of the principles they teach. The story of Ramakrishna Paramahamsa, the example of the school science teacher, and the broader concept of professional standards all underscore the importance of 'walking the talk.' A teacher who genuinely practices what they preach builds a strong foundation of trust and reliability, ensuring that their teachings have a lasting impact on their students.