Redefining, Rather Refining, The Conventional Role Of A Teacher

Everything in this world undergoes a metamorphosis. So has the role of a teacher.

- Rinky Marwaha

It has now become evident that the role of a teacher is not restricted only to teaching these days. In fact, it has changed into that of a mentor; into that of a friend in need, and a friend indeed. This is more than apparent. Gone are the days when the role of a teacher was that of a strict parent at school or in college. He or she was a person who stood next to the blackboard or whiteboard all the time and taught lessons. Teachers are becoming a far more friendly these days. They are no longer the missies and misters who taught us and their role ended at that. In fact, they are a lot more than just teachers now. They guide, they befriend and they are more of family now.

In earlier times, there was an element of fear even attached to the traditional role of the teacher. He or she did not intermingle all that much with students. A distinct line was there in the relationship between a teacher and his or her students. There was an aura of respect, of not crossing a certain plane while interacting with him or her. This line is somewhat fading now. There is more of mutual exchange – teachers join in more with students and mix around much more. Even the equations between the teacher and student have changed – they are freer with them and discussions are not limited to pure studies these days. The teacher guides the student in ways more than one. He or she consciously tries to hand-hold them more and become more of a parent and a friend, rolled into one person.

…………..teachers are more of ‘buddies’