By Sho Chang-young
March marks the beginning of a new school year in South Korea. At this time, students and teachers meet anew, or for the first time, and spend roughly a year together.
In every school, since before the opening of this school year, there were higher than usual demands from students and parents regarding teacher assignments. They did not want the teachers who are considered to have even the slight potential of “maladjustment.”
Because of unconfirmed rumors about this type of teacher, some schools have trouble establishing an educational plan. This was wholly due to the terrible news of a teacher’s crime that happened about a month ago.
The term itself may be unfamiliar, but some teachers indeed struggle in schools, just like students do. Even I, with many years of experience as a teacher, have seen such cases from time to time. Now, this issue needs to be addressed more carefully than ever.
Teachers play a crucial role in shaping the minds and futures of students. However, as is the case for many other jobs, it's challenging to adjust to the way of living as a teacher and a new work environment. Some of the challenges teachers face negatively impact their welfare, professional efficiency and even students' academic performance. Understanding the causes and the consequences of these challenges and coming up with apt solutions is essential for fostering a healthy learning environment.
Several factors are at play when it comes to the challenges teachers face, including personal, institutional and societal difficulties. Proactive steps must be taken at individual, official and policy levels to combat these issues.
First, excessive workload, directorial responsibilities and insufficient time for lesson preparation can lead to stress and burnout. Teachers who struggle may face difficulties in lesson planning, classroom engagement and delivering quality lectures. Schools and education authorities should provide counseling services, medical support, classroom management workshops and peer support groups to help them.
Second, teachers who do not receive adequate support from schools may feel undervalued and discouraged. Anxiety, depression and emotional exhaustion are common issues among teachers. Implementing policies that balance teaching and administrative duties through proper mediation can help alleviate these challenges and support teachers.
Third, difficulties in managing student behavior and addressing unreasonable demands from parents can create significant stress for teachers. When educators face these challenges, it may impact the quality of teaching, student engagement and overall guidance.
Providing continuous training and career growth opportunities can help teachers build confidence and stay motivated in their roles.
Fourth, limited opportunities for developing new teaching skills may lead to stagnation and reduced enthusiasm for teaching. Difficulties in adapting to changing expectations can sometimes result in challenges within the school environment, including interactions with parents, adding to tension and dissatisfaction.
Encouraging open communication and recognizing teachers' efforts — while fostering collaboration with the local community — can contribute to a more supportive and positive work environment.
Addressing the underlying causes and implementing effective solutions for the challenges teachers face can help create a more supportive and productive teaching atmosphere.
And by prioritizing teachers' overall well-being, schools can ensure better educational outcomes and a more motivated, dedicated teaching workforce.
Sho Chang-young is a retired high school teacher and former principal of Gunsan Girls' High School.
English (United States) ·