28/12/2025
Fostering Qualities that Elevate Teaching and Learning. I recall a colleague who landed a scholarship to study in Canada, and upon returning home after three years, he seemed revitalized. During a visit, I playfully remarked, “Mark, it's clear the experiences you've had have had a profound impact; you've undergone a significant transformation!” We chuckled together. He smiled knowingly and said, “If you saw the differences between our systems and Canada's, you'd be moved. Even the educational system fosters a sense of self-worth.” My curiosity piqued, I asked him to elaborate. He shared a surprising anecdote. “In my Canadian university, lecturers avoided giving zeros on exams. Instead, they focused on encouragement, ensuring that even the lowest score wasn't below 40%.” I asked, incredulous, “So even if a student's answers were off the mark, they'd still receive 40%?” He nodded, and I pressed him for more insight. “I posed the same question to my lecturer, wondering why zeros weren't given as a penalty for failing to meet expectations. The lecturer's response left a lasting impression on me.” The lecturer had explained, “No student deserves to be given up on. How can we penalize someone who shows up, tries, and learns, even if they don't get it right away? Here, we value the effort, not just the outcome, because every individual deserves to be seen and valued.” His eyes welled up as he reflected on the moment. He continued, “That's when I understood the true meaning of empathy and the importance of treating others with kindness. The educational system there doesn't just teach; it builds character.” This story brought back memories of my own childhood. I remembered how my primary school teacher would give zeros and announce them publicly, often with humiliating consequences. Looking back, I realize that many students struggled not because they lacked intelligence but because the system failed to support them. Children thrive on encouragement, not ridicule. Assigning zeros can undermine their confidence, while mockery can dampen their enthusiasm. Once students feel incapable, they're likely to disengage. It's crucial for educators and parents to shift their approach from discipline to nurturing, focusing on compassion, patience, and respect. By doing so, we can empower the next generation, recognizing the potential in every child rather than tearing them down.