Teachers Code of Conduct

Introduction

Teachers are the pillar of every society. Their role in a society cannot be overemphasized. Teaching as a profession is one of the oldest and noblest professions in the world. The pupils they teach and even those they interact with look up to them for emulation.

They are role models. As role models, they have to be of good behaviour because whatever they do will be prone to imitation. Over the years, there has been a decline. In order to maintain discipline and the integrity of the profession, code of conduct have been made to check and control teachers.

Recommended: Online learning in Nigeria -The Pros and Cons

Understanding Teachers Code of Conduct

Code of conduct for teachers is a well written and arranged document that contains the rules and regulations, what is and is not acceptable in terms of behaviour in the teaching profession. It is a handbook of an organization setting forth rules for members.

A good code of conduct must touch the following areas: dress code, gift and entertainment policies, confidentiality procedures, company core values and vision, ban on illegal activities (smoking, taking of alcohol and use of filthy language), training requirements, company and equipment use and protection.

Purpose of Teachers Code of Conduct

1. It builds a solid foundation for a good educational system.
2. It serves as a checking tool for any form of misconduct.

Teachers Code of Conduct

UNESCO and ILO in 1984 made a document titled: The Status of a Teacher. The teachers’ code of conduct was made in 142 recommendations that cover guiding principles, educational objectives and policies, preparation for the profession, further education for teachers, employment and career, rights and responsibilities of teachers, conditions for effective teaching and learning, teachers salaries and social security, among others.

Also See: Example of Lesson Plan for Secondary Schools in Nigeria -3 important steps to know

In Nigeria, The Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria has set various rules that serve as code of conduct: principles of professionalisation, relationship with colleagues, relationship with parents, relationship with an employer, relationship with the society.

In summary, the following are teachers code of conduct. Every teacher should:

1. Be of good behaviour whether in the private or in the open.
2. Respect all superior authorities irrespective of their academic qualification, age or sex.
3.Carry out his or her duties diligently such that it fits with the standard of the profession
4.Make sure that from time to time he or she updates the knowledge acquired as times are changing.
5. Must put on characters and attitudes that are worthy of emulation.
6. Respect his or her colleague and avoid a heated argument that might lead to a fight.
7. Dress in a way that will not cause a distraction to the learners.
8. Be caring, kind and patient with all the learners that they come in contact with.
9. Recognise and respect the learning abilities of the pupils.
10. Not verbally abuse any learner.
11. Develop a positive relationship with the learners, parent or guardians, colleagues and the school authority.
12. Respect the privacy of every learner and keep all confidential issues confidential.
13. Develop and write lesson plans and note for each week.
14. Update all academic records like register and diary as and when due.
15. Should not all personal problems and interest to interfere with this noble profession.
16. Be punctual to work.
17. Be fully prepared for every lesson.
18. Provide the necessary and relevant information to the parents or guardians of a learner.
19. Reject any form of gift that would generate favouritism on the academic performance of the child.
20. Ensure that learners are disciplined and are of good conduct at all times.
21. Treat all learners equally irrespective of tribe, religion, age, sex, race and belief.
22. Keep all test and examination records properly.
23. Ensure that all learners participate in extracurricular activities.
24. Not harass or abuse any learner sexually.
25.Not develop or have any sexual relationship with any learner.
26. Discourage any act that would foster examination malpractice.
27. Treat his or her colleague with respect, irrespective of their academic qualification.
28. Cooperate with the learners, parents or guardians, school management and school community.
29. Have the necessary academic qualifications for effective performance.
30. Always take permission before staying back from work.
31. Make sure that parents and guardians are interested in the academic progress of their wards.
32. Not use the school property for his or her personal use or interest.
In conclusion, if all these codes of conduct are kept, then the integrity of the teaching profession will be properly maintained.