* Time period: Teaching styles and disciplinary approaches have changed dramatically over time. Teachers in the early 20th century, for example, were often much stricter than teachers today, employing corporal punishment and a more authoritarian approach. The mid-20th century saw a shift towards more progressive methods, although strictness still varied widely. Modern approaches emphasize positive reinforcement and student well-being, though disciplinary measures still exist.
* Geographic location: Cultural norms and local school policies influenced teacher behavior. Rural schools might have had different expectations and disciplinary practices than urban schools. Differences also existed between countries and even within regions of the same country.
* School type: Private schools, religious schools, and public schools often had differing levels of strictness, reflecting their values and philosophies. Military schools, for instance, were typically known for their highly structured and disciplined environment.
* Individual teacher personality and style: Even within the same school and time period, teachers varied in their approaches. Some were known for their strictness, while others were more lenient and nurturing.
* Subject matter: Teachers of certain subjects, like math or science, might have appeared stricter due to their emphasis on precision and adherence to rules, while teachers of subjects like art or music might have been more flexible.
* Student behavior: A classroom's overall behavior could influence a teacher's disciplinary approach. A disruptive class might lead a teacher to become stricter, while a well-behaved class might allow for a more relaxed environment.
Therefore, there's no single answer to how strict teachers were. To understand the strictness of teachers in a particular context, you need to specify the time period, location, type of school, and other relevant factors.