THE IMPORTANCE OF CHARACTER EDUCATION: THE ENGLISH TEACHER’S EFFORTS AND CHALLENGES IN STUDENTS’ CHARACTER BUILDING

Abstract

A good teaching objective should not only accentuate the attainment of theoretical and practical knowledge, but also provide a meaningful learning outcome and positive change of students’ attitude and behaviour. As one of key components within teaching and learning process at school, a teacher definitely plays central roles and contributions to successfully achieve this desired goal. This can be done through a school program and pedagogical practice which promote sets of character values during the classroom instruction and its influences can be seen in daily interaction between teacher and students as well other components in a school environment. Thus, a variety of efforts are needed to achieve this purpose. This paper addreses the importance of character education for school learners and the discussion is mainly focused on the efforts that can be made by English teachers in students’ character building. There are several efforts that can be made by teachers to teach character education for students including teaching a direct example, giving an assignment, cultivating a habitual action, and being a role model. In addition, this paper also discusses several challenges which are likely to be confronted by teachers in the field such as commitment, support, and appreciation. 

Keywords: Character Education, Teacher’s Efforts, Challenges, English Teacher