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Shepherd/Linn, Behavior and Classroom Management in the Multicultural Classroom
Chapter 4
Role of the Teacher
Teachers have always had the legal, moral, and ethical responsibility to maintain an environment
in which learning can take place.
Today’s teachers need to have an understanding of behavior theories and strategies and consider
the needs of students from cultural and linguistically diverse backgrounds, students with physical
disabilities, students with learning disabilities, and gifted students.
Responsibilities of the Professional Teacher
• Teachers are facilitators of learning, and pedagogy is the method through which they
provide students with the information and the strategies they need to master the subject.
• Today’s teachers need to be behavior managers. Teachers establish classroom rules and a
hierarchy of consequences and rewards, consider the academic and behavior needs of all
students, and consider the differential needs of students of both genders, students of
diverse cultures and languages, and students of all ability levels.
• Teachers should also create environments where students feel safe to express their
opinions and where they are not afraid to try and fail.
Ethical Considerations
• Teachers are public figures who are trusted with children of the community, and their
behaviors are often scrutinized, especially outside the classroom setting.
Shepherd/Linn, Behavior and Classroom Management in the Multicultural Classroom
• Teachers should follow a code of ethics for professional educators that ensure high
standards of practice, protect the public, and guide educators in making decisions.
Professional Self-Esteem of the Teacher
• Professional self-esteem is an individual’s belief in his or her worth and acceptance in a
work-related position.
• High professional self-esteem is extremely important for teachers because it provides
them with a higher purpose and creates an enthusiastic attachment with their profession.
