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From: Dr. Dillamond
Date: 28 Apr 2004
Time: 18:08:22 -0500
Remote Name: 4.250.156.251
The relationship between a student and a teacher can be a strong bond that might last a lifetime. However, as was previously mentioned, there is a power dichotomy between the two that must be acknowledged. Friendships can encourage growth in both parties, and may foster a continued interest in learning and the overall school setting. But because of the dichotomy, friendships can (and should) grow the strongest after the student is no longer in the class of the teacher. Too close a bond might offset the teacher/student relationship. (not saying that the two can't be friends...just that you should acknowledge the limits and boundaries of the relationship) Confiding secrets and dreams should be held off until after he/she is no longer your teacher. (Though an exception would be in the role of an elementary school teacher, where the teacher/student relationship is a bit more combined with a parent-figure role, and with the innocence of youth this exchange would be fully appropriate). Just some thoughts....