Rules and Procedures seems pretty straight forward. It's dealing with disruptive behavior that seems daunting to me going into the classroom. There are a lot of useful strategies here, many of which I learned in ETE 345 as well, but I still have this nagging anxiety about it. I know that, as a teacher, I will have to expect misbehavior to occur at some point in my career. After reading this, it seems like the best way to avoid as much misbehavior as possible is to plan accordingly.
Procedures are important. Something not mentioned extensively in the text is that students should be a part of the rule-making process. I like that the book mentioned starting with only a few core rules (i.e. be respectful, don't just leave class, don't steal things, etc.), but then I think the class needs to have a discussion about what the students feel is important enough to be included in the rules and procedures. I think it helps the students to feel like they are an important part of the class and it helps students to feel included and respected.
Either way, I think the most important aspect of effectively controlling a classroom is to create a friendly, inviting environment, where students feel safe and respected. As teachers, we should all be trying to foster an environment where students can put their best self forward. The authors have pointed out that the majority of misbehavior is due to students' needs not being met. Whether it's the result of a student finishing their work quickly and having nothing else to get them through the end of class, or whether it's the result of a student not having an interest in the subject, it's important that we consider our students when planning lessons and activities. Sometimes the best/easiest way to teach a lesson is not the same as the best way to learn the lesson from the perspective of the student.
One last point I want to make that I particularly enjoyed is the section where they discussed "why do we have to do this?" I thought it was very poignant that they pointed out the importance of not brushing such inquiries off, because it's a legitimate question that opens up opportunities to explore the importance of our subject matter and material. Never brush this question off. If it was important enough to the student for them to challenge the lesson in that way, then it's important enough to be addressed. Sometimes just discussing why a lesson is important opens up so many new doors to create future lessons and learning opportunities for all involved. I love when students ask me this question, and I'm glad the authors addressed it in the chapter.
Great reflection of the chapter Mr. Daugherty. You are so right, it is important to create an environment that students can and want to put their best self forward. I agree that planning accordingly is the best way to avoid negative behaviors and allowing students to be a part of that planning process is key. For your last point, I do remember reading in ch. 3 to not get frustrated and don't brush off any type of question rather respond kindly and professionally and as you pointed out open up the doors to future lessons.
ReplyDelete