Sunday, March 27, 2011

Restorative Discipline: From Getting Even to Getting Well

In this session of restorative discipline, Judy Mullet described what a noncoercive discipline approach looks like.  She advocates that restorativee discipline is a differentiated approach that invites students to put things right and make good choices.  The essence of restorative discipline is to move away from punishment to reconciliation.

Using the assumption that one can't do bad when doing good, restorative practice aims to get well instead of get even.  It is about the art of bringing together where inclusivity is the key to nurture a community that is healthy and harmonious. 

It is also about the art of asking effective questions.  Restorative practice is a process for developing self discipline and channel all energies towards a just and compassionate living.  It seeks to create, nurture and amnd relationships.

I feel that the restorative practice must be assimilated into the current discipline structure in all schools.  The restorative practice would certainly serve to build a compassionate and inclusive community.  It injects a sense of ownership trust and respect in the community.  It repairs relationships and expects all individuals to be part of the culture giving life rather than taking away.  However, it must be build into the system as a whole because if a student refuses to participate in finding solutions for any situation, he/ she may still have to be referred to a disciplinary process, which is the last resort.

Written by: Aubury Ong

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