80% of teachers fear child abuse accusations for routine classroom guidance

New surveys in South Korea show that many teachers are thinking about leaving the profession because of heavy workloads, pressure from parents and fears of legal problems. The surveys were released by the Korean Teachers and Education Workers Union and the Korean Federation of Teachers’ Unions ahead of Teachers’ Day on May 15.
 

One survey found that almost all teachers believe administrative work negatively affects teaching. Teachers said tasks such as budgeting, accounting, hiring paperwork and handling complaints from parents take too much time away from education. Many respondents felt these duties were not related to their main responsibility of teaching students.
 

Another major concern was pressure from parents and fear of child abuse accusations. More than 60 percent of teachers said malicious complaints from parents made them consider resigning. In addition, over 80 percent reported feeling anxious about possibly being sued because of normal classroom discipline or guidance. Many teachers said they now hesitate to correct or guide students because they worry their actions could be misunderstood.
 

The surveys also showed that many teachers feel their authority in the classroom has weakened. More than 94 percent said they had reduced or avoided certain educational activities because of fear of accusations. Many respondents also believed schools no longer provide conditions that allow teachers to focus fully on teaching and supporting students.
 

Despite these challenges, teachers still find meaning in helping students grow and improve. Nearly 95 percent of respondents said students’ positive changes were the most rewarding part of being a teacher. However, only a small number said they would choose the teaching profession again, showing how serious dissatisfaction among educators has become.

Edited using generative AI tools.
Source ;https://www.koreatimes.co.kr/southkorea/society/20260515/80-of-teachers-fear-child-abuse-accusations-for-routine-classroom-guidance

Comprehension

Why are many teachers in South Korea considering leaving the profession?
What kinds of administrative tasks do teachers find most burdensome?
Why are teachers worried about child abuse accusations?
How have fears of complaints affected classroom activities?
What did many teachers say was the most rewarding part of teaching?

Discussion

Why do you think teachers today face more pressure than before?
How can schools reduce teachers’ administrative workload?
Should parents have limits when making complaints against teachers? Why or why not?
How important is teacher authority in the classroom?
What qualities make a good teacher?
How can society better support and respect teachers?
Would you consider becoming a teacher? Why or why not?
What can schools do to improve teachers’ mental health and job satisfaction?

Vocabulary

Administrative – related to managing or organizing work
Burdensome – difficult or heavy to handle
Malicious – intended to harm or cause trouble
Accusation – a claim that someone did something wrong
Authority – the power to control or guide others
Resignation – the act of leaving a job
Dedication – strong commitment to work or duty
Frustration – feelings of annoyance or disappointment