There is a phrase that has become popular in teaching:
Praise in public. Punish (or criticize) in private.
I think this depends on many factors, especially the classroom’s climate and culture. If a teacher is adept at bringing the class together as one big family, or a particular class has come together on their own, then much more can be said in the open.
If there is trust and love in a classroom, then most things can be said out in the open.
It’s also important to remember that private rarely remains private. The notion of private is oftentimes a farce.
One of the biggest mistakes teachers make is failing to allow a student they are reprimanding to maintain their dignity. Criticizing in public is often perfectly fine if the student does not feel isolated or ashamed in the process. Creativity, flexibility, and a willingness to subjugate one’s ego are often required in order to reprimand a student without losing that student’s trust and respect.
Consequences are important. Self-esteem is, too.
