Voice Training For Teachers

[Bluffer]

Seems its not just us that have to shout at the kids

NEWS -

Teachers ‘need voice training for the classroom’

DOUGLAS FRASER, Scottish Political Editor January 05 2005

TEACHERS should be trained in the use of their voices before they take to the classroom, according to their leading union.

Voice strain is thought to be a growing problem in the school workforce, with the Educational Institute of Scotland warning more needs to be done to help teachers avoid the days off work that result.

According to research carried out for the Trades Union Congress, which looked at the problem of voice overuse by both teachers and call-centre workers, it was estimated that one in five teachers takes time off work each year because of voice-related problems.

Ronnie Smith, EIS general secretary, said the problem has been exacerbated by new, privately-financed schools, where the priority has been low cost, so some rooms have ceilings which are low, putting extra strain on staff. He also cited problems with poor workplace air quality, or the types of chemicals that are common in many workplaces.

He said there was a need for the problem to be taken more seriously by employers, with better timetabling to give teachers time to rest their voices and easy access to fresh water. He also said there was a strong case for voice training in initial teacher training.

The union also claims the problem is exacerbated by large classes and growing pupil indiscipline.

Each year, the EIS handles the cases of one or two teachers who become technically disabled with the problem, with special arrangements needed to handle their resulting voice limitations.

Mr Smith said: "Voice strain is a serious problem or teachers and lecturers and can develop into a serious occupational health condition which can hinder the way people do their jobs while also causing difficulties for schools, colleges and universities due to the loss of experienced teaching staff."

The Herald

Its not a funny thing to happen. It takes me a while to get back into the way of TEACHER TALKING rather than normal talking at the start of term and long term could have serious consequences.

What will happen here? Err dont hold your breath.

But, it would be a good idea if the TEFL courses could squeeze in a couple of hours or so into a course though.