Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)

I totally disagree with the idea of teachers communicating with students outside of the classroom - period! Teacher/Student relationships should be centered strictly within/during/after the classroom session on SCHOOL grounds. Opening up communication outside the school lends itself to many future, if not present, charges of teachers "stepping out of bounds" with respect toward students. Advancements in society may prove beneficial; however, it is also another avenue for corruption. There have been many cases of inappropriate teacher/student relationships and this "outlet" could...potentially...increase those cases. Everyone knows, not thinks, not speculates, but knows that not all parents provide the proper internet oversight required for children while surfing, creating their personal websites, chatting online, etc. Therefore, providing an additional access, even for the most remote of chances where a student can easily be manipulated, should not even be questioned. Many generations were taught IN THE CLASSROOM and have prospered in society without the internet. I am quite sure this and future generations can do so just as efficiently. Everyone KNOWS that relationships online via type, IM, etc. opens an area where one "feels" more open in expressing themself more openly, personally, vunerably, etc., so this "new access via Facebook and MySpace", too, could lead to even more unfavorable effects. Parents MUST be held accountable for their children and openly and willingly keep an open dialogue with their children's teacher whenever a student requires clarification, assistance, etc. This is NOT a responsibility of the child nor the teacher. KEEP SCHOOL IN THE CLASSROOM - Where education should be.