By Mbah-Nwanegbo Ronnie, Educator at Lagooz School
Discipline is one of the most important pillars of education. It helps students develop self-control, obedience, and respect for authority.
In many schools especially in the past, flogging or corporal punishment was the most common method of correcting wrong behaviour.
Teachers often believed that the cane was the fastest way to ensure obedience, sometimes even backing this belief with the popular saying, “Spare the rod and spoil the child.” However, in recent years, many educators and child psychologists have strongly criticised flogging because it can create fear, resentment, and even physical or emotional harm.
This shift has led to an important question: Without flogging, how can students be disciplined effectively?
1. Counselling and moral instruction
Counselling is one of the most effective and humane forms of discipline. When a student misbehaves, a teacher or school counsellor can hold a private conversation with the child to understand the reason behind the behaviour and offer moral guidance. This approach helps students reflect on their actions, learn responsibility, and grow in character. It also fosters mutual respect and strengthens the relationship between teachers and students.
Corrective academic tasks
Instead of physical punishment, schools can assign constructive academic tasks. For example, a student who refuses to do homework could be asked to write an essay on “The Importance of Responsibility” or to complete additional exercises. Such measures discourage laziness, promote accountability, and reinforce learning while instilling discipline.
Community or school service
Assigning community or school service is another positive strategy. Offending students can sweep classrooms, water school gardens, arrange library books, or clean the assembly ground. These tasks teach humility, teamwork, and respect for the dignity of labour. They also help students appreciate the importance of maintaining a clean and orderly environment.
Withdrawal of privileges
Withholding privileges can be an effective corrective measure. Students who break school rules may temporarily lose access to games, parties, or excursions. When learners realise that good behaviour earns rewards while misconduct removes them, they become more motivated to act responsibly.
Apologies and restorative actions
Encouraging students to apologise — verbally or in writing — promotes accountability and emotional maturity. A sincere apology fosters honesty, courage, and empathy while helping restore peace within the school community.
Conclusion
Flogging is not the only path to discipline. Through counselling, corrective work, community service, withdrawal of privileges, and restorative actions, teachers can shape behaviour in ways that are both educational and humane. True discipline should build character, not fear. It should teach students to choose right conduct; not because they dread punishment, but because they understand the value of good behaviour.
