(An item from the ISHN Member information service) As part of our global dialogue on integrating health & social programs within education systems, we have been urging that non-educational sectors strive to better understand schools and educators. An article in Volume 187, 2015 of Procedia - Social and Behavioral Sciences provides us with some valuable insights based on small scale examination of the values of older (more than 20 yrs teaching) and younger primary school teachers (less than 15 yrs teaching. The authors note that "Teachers, including primary education teachers are not only transmitters of (didactically processed) knowledge but also one of the many factors of axiological influence for the younger generations. Primary education teachers, be they aware of it or not, convey – implicitly or explicitly – their system of values onto their pupils. The study aims to reveal the main values of a group of primary education teachers in Prahova County, Romania, listing values in which they believe and which they instill in their little pupils". Some of the inter-generational differences among this small sample of teachers are noted in this commentary:
- Perspectives on their work: when it relates to their own work, it was found that the both older and younger teachers shared values such as self-improvement / professional development and seriousness. Older teachers valued conscientiousness, perseverance, professionalism, thoroughness while younger teachers identified efficiency, timeliness, optimism, doing what must be done as more important. The researchers report that that they "do not encounter creativity, originality, courage, differentiated / individualized work, teamwork (on a project, for example), retaining the significant aspects (cognitive, emotional, attitudinal, relational) of their work with children".
- Working with others: Regarding the values that most concern the investigated primary education teachers when relating to others, both generations valued honesty and trust. The authors note that "mutual aid" is missing, for both groups.
- Core values that school should currently inculcate pupils: Both groups agree on thirst for knowledge / learning, respect and honour are the important values. However, older teachers are more focused on discipline, reading and self-esteem, whereas younger teachers were more concerned with the democratic / civic spirit.
- The most dangerous counter-values in today's world: both age groups listed: lies and hypocrisy / falsehood as common options. What differentiates them is: for material values, stupidity, theft, superficiality, disinterest / neglecting others, cowardice and kitsch. For example, older teachers considered material values stupidity and theft as most hazardous, while younger teachers thought superficiality, cowardice and surrogates are dangerous.
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