Embracing Beneficial Punishment in Schools: A Shift from Corporal Punishment

As educators, we strive to create a conducive learning environment that fosters growth, discipline, and responsibility. However, corporal punishment has proven to be counterproductive, leading to negative consequences on students’ physical, emotional, and psychological well-being. It’s time to adopt a more constructive approach – beneficial punishment.

Beneficial punishment focuses on teaching students valuable life skills, promoting accountability, and encouraging positive behavior. Here are seven examples of beneficial punishment that can be effectively implemented in schools:

1. Sweeping of portioned school environments: Assigning students to sweep specific areas of the school helps maintain cleanliness and teaches them the importance of community service.

2. Mopping selected number of classrooms: This task promotes cleanliness, responsibility, and teamwork.

3. Washing a selected number of toilet closets: This punishment helps maintain hygiene and teaches students the value of contributing to the school’s upkeep.

4. Weeding & Raking of a portioned school environment: This outdoor activity promotes physical activity, teamwork, and environmental responsibility.

5. Washing Kitchen wares (boarders only): Assigning students to wash kitchen utensils teaches them the importance of cleanliness, responsibility, and teamwork.

6. Detention after school to Write “Letter Samples” or “Handwriting Drills”: This punishment helps students improve their writing skills, handwriting, and attention to detail.

7. Asking the student to write a stipulated number of articles or essays: This task promotes critical thinking, research, and writing skills.

By adopting beneficial punishment, teachers can encourage positive behavior, teach valuable life skills, and foster a sense of responsibility and self-discipline. We urge teachers to reconsider the use of corporal punishment and instead adopt beneficial punishment strategies.

Written By:

Gabriel Chibuikem Eze (Student Affairs Representative).