| Abstract: | Sandven, J. 1979. Social Sensitivity as a Factor in the Teaching Process. A Theoretical Discussion and an Experimental Contribution. Scandinavian Journal of Educational Research 23, 131‐150. The view is advanced that.the teacher should rank high, fairly high or above the students as regards abilities and reaction characteristics which he is supposed to develop in the students. Arguments in favor of this assumption are found in theories underlying the development of behavior therapy, with particular reference to the concept of modelling, and also in the theory underlying the client‐centered therapy. Earlier investigations indicating social sensitivity as an essential teacher characteristic are drawn to attention. Design and results of an investigation concerning the effect of social sensitivity are presented. Two tasks of microteaching intended for 6th graders were carried out by 29 teachers without the students being present. The performances were videotaped and later presented to 6th graders and experts for evaluation. It is clearly brought out that there is a high degree of correspondence between the teacher's standing on social sensitivity and the reaction to him in such a situation by students and experts. Social sensitivity is strongly indicated as a crucial teacher characteristic. |
