The Importance of discipline in students

There are two distinct definitions of discipline and they are very different from one another. The first is extrinsic and the second is intrinsic. Let’s explore the differences between the two. Traditional schools take great pride in imposing discipline extrinsically. The top Gurgaon schools, especially the progressive ones will always weave the learning around intrinsic discipline. 

EXTRINSIC DISCIPLINE

Based on a command control model

The origins of this form of discipline lies in how militaries of the world were structured. Uniforms, hierarchies, obeying order and respect for authority were (and still are) essential ingredients for the armies of the world. Unfortunately these organising principles have permeated into schools and organisations which could do without them. Companies around the world are doing their best to dismantle these structures since they are taking away from innovation across all levels. Discipline in this model is enforced by an authority - in the context of schools - by the principal on the teachers and by the teachers on the students.

Based on punishment

Extrinsic discipline is always enforced by punishment. If you don't do what you are expected to do, you will be punished. Students will perform tasks expected of them and will be punished if they don't do so.

Based on fear

Extrinsic discipline based on punishment always creates fear. Fear takes away from creativity and innovation. If children fear making mistakes they will be scared of experimenting. Only if students experiment will they come up with new ideas and solutions to problems.

INTRINSIC DISCIPLINE

Based on empowerment

This form of discipline is where freedom is given and trust is placed on the students. It begins with teachers building close bonds with their students so that they are internally motivated to listen and to perform. Teachers provide guidance and tools and then empower the students to do their work with freedom. Teachers monitor and gently critique students’ work to make them achieve mastery.

Based on positive reinforcement

When students demonstrate a good attitude and produce good work, teachers provide encouragement (positive reinforcement) to them. This triggers motivation in the students who slowly develop a desire to produce more good work. This positive cycle creates intrinsic discipline. When students err, the teachers gently help them to correct their course.

Creates motivation

This process of building a close bond, identifying strengths and interests, becoming a mentor and providing positive feedback makes a student truly motivated. Motivation is the fuel that creates a desire to learn. It also generates internal discipline and a sense of purpose.

Intrinsic discipline is a purer and longer lasting form of discipline. The ‘gurus’ of ancient India applied the principles of empowerment and positive reinforcement to make their ‘shishyas’ internally motivated and disciplined. The most successful leaders are applying these principles to unlock motivation and creativity across their organisations. The same principles need to be applied with students, especially when they are young.

There are many schools in Gurgaon however well trained educators at the best schools in Gurgaon will first focus on building relationships with their students. Once the relationship is built these educators will construct learning around interests and strengths of the students. They will follow this up with positive (and at times corrective) feedback. They will create a happy culture where the students are self motivated.  

A happy culture always creates less pressure and more learning.