Teachers are the role models of the young learners entrusted to them by their parents, and with whom they spend a lot of time. Bad behaviour by these tutors is likely to be copied, and nowhere has this been as evident as in the increasing abuse of social media.
Whenever these powerful influencers misuse online platforms, their charges are likely to copy those bad habits. This is why there is an urgent need for teachers to model responsible digital behaviour both inside and outside the classroom.
The Teachers Service Commission (TSC) has just warned the tutors against cyberbullying, harassment and other forms of unprofessional conduct on social media. The teachers’ employer says that those found to have violated the rules will face disciplinary action.
The commission is alarmed about a rise in cases of teachers engaging in cyberbullying, intimidation, dissemination of offensive content and other forms of online misconduct. They must uphold the dignity and integrity of this noble profession in their physical interactions and on digital platforms. They should, therefore, stop over-sharing their personal lives with students. The Constitution guarantees the freedom of expression, but this does not condone propaganda, incitement to violence, and hate speech. Teachers who misuse digital platforms may expose themselves and the TSC to legal liability arising from breaches of statutory obligations. Such misconduct diminishes the dignity and integrity of the profession.
Teachers have a deep influence on the learners as they spend many hours with them daily. Online misconduct sets a dangerous precedent as the children easily copy what these adults do. To enhance digital ethics, teachers should be trained on good online habits. Sanctions will be imposed in accordance with the Teachers Service Commission Act and the Code of Regulations for Teachers.
Schools must set strict social media guidelines and quickly punish online misconduct.
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