Classroom Management and Student Discipline
Classroom Management and Student Discipline
Classroom management is not a goal to be achieved but a set of procedures and conditions that makes it possible for the teacher and the learners to attain valid educational goals and objectives. Discipline here does not mean a series of punishments meted out the badly- behaved students: discipline here refers to a code of conduct which binds a teacher and a group of students together so that learning can be more effective. Another words, the object of discipline is not to take action when things get out of hand, but to ensure that things never reach that stage. The point being made here is that both students and teachers need to know what the code is. When they do they will know what forms of behaviour are acceptable, not just the teacher, but for the rest of the class as well. Prevention, in other words, is better than cure.
I- Causes of Discipline Problems:
There seems to be three possible reasons for discipline problem: the teacher, the students and the institution.
a- The teachers:
The behaviour and the attitude of the teacher is perhaps the single most important factor in a classroom, and thus can have a major effect on discipline. Here is a list of things a teacher does and leads to discipline problems.
1- Going to class unprepared, in such a case students automatically identify teachers who are not sure what to do in the classroom.
2- Being inconsistent in other words teachers have to be consistent about what the code of conduct is otherwise the students will lose to it.
3- Issuing threats with terrible punishment, and then do not carrying then out causes a great discipline problem.
4- Raising the voice has disastrous results, for it contributes to a general raising of the level of noise in the classroom.
5- Giving boring classes causes indiscipline since students lack interest.
6- Being unfair in other words avoid having favorite or picking on particular individuals.
7- Breaking the code is unacceptable, for it either exists for the group as a whole(including the teacher) or it does not exist at all.
b- The students:
1- A desire to be noticed since most students demand full attention. The best way to gain such attention is through disruptive actions.
2- Easily distracted students (monitors, visitors, a change in weather) cause discipline problems.
3- Hostile, resistant, or aggressive students intend to prove themselves through certain misbehaved actions in which it creates slowdowns and work stoppages.
4- A bored student is a discipline problem, whereas an interested student is not.
c- the institution:
A lot depends on the attitude of the institution to discipline and student behaviour. Ideally there will be recognized system for dealing with problem classes and students. It is to be hoped that the teacher can consult co-ordinators when in trouble. Every institution must have a specific and recognized policy about discipline problems so that teachers apply it in details.
II- Why students need Discipline ?
Disciplining your students may be difficult and a great responsibility, since the teacher who is wholly responsible for maintaining an orderly and harmonious classroom. Being aware of the reasons for discipline will facilitate the teacher’s task and will urge her to provide discipline easily.
1- Good classroom management enhances the mental and social development of children.
2- Good classroom management provides intellectual and physical freedom within specified limits.
3- Good classroom management allows children to gain self-confidence and self-esteem.
4- Good classroom management works towards a warm but firm relationship between the teacher and the children.
5- Good classroom management gives the students the chance to understand the logical consequences of their actions.
6- Good classroom management lets students learn, respect, appreciate, and apply the values that are held by their family and community.
III- Negative Effects of Physical Punishment
Discipline never meant a physical punishment. Physical punishment leads to many negative effects.
Action in case of indiscipline
There are a number of things a teacher can do when students behave badly. The ability to control a group of students depends to a large extent on the personality of the teacher. There is, however, a number of measures that can be taken.
1- Act immediately: The longer a discipline problem is left unchecked, the more difficult it is to take action.
2- Stop the class: This is a clear indication to all the students that something is wrong.
3- Reseating: An effective way of controlling a student who is behaving badly is immediately to make the student sit in different place.
4- After the class: The teacher should probably take the student, who behaved badly, to one side after the class is over. It will be necessary to explain to the student why his behavior is anti-social. At the same time the student should be given a chance in order to encourage him to improve his behaviour.
Note: The institution has the final power of expulsion; it is to be hoped that it is almost never used.
Discipline tips for teachers:
1- Set a good example. You are role models for your students. For example, if you want to teach your students that physical violence is not the way to resolve conflicts or problems, then don’t use physical punishment.
2- Set limits, but be careful not to impose too many rules. Before making a rule, ask yourself: Is it necessary? Does the rule protect a child’s health and safety? Does it protect the rights or property of others? Too many rules are hard, if not impossible, to enforce.
3- Keep rules simple and understandable.
4- Involve student as much as possible in making class-conduct rules. They are less likely to break rules that they have helped establish.
5- Help your student understand rules and what happens when they are broken.
6- Be flexible. Some rules may work when a student is young, but as students get older, they need and want more independence. Remember, not all students respond in the same way.
7- Help your student develop self-control. Young children do not have the self-control needed to follow all the rules of the time.
8- Tell a student about behaviour that is annoying to you, or to others.
9- Act quickly when a student misbehaves. Don’t let a problem build up over time.
10- Be consistent. This way a student always knows what will happen if he or she does not follow the rules.
11- Praise a student for good behaviour and accomplishments. Let the student know you appreciate his or her efforts.
12- Avoid power struggles with your students. Discipline is not a game in which there is a winner and a loser. You expect co- operation from your student expects you to be fair. Respect your student enough to allow disagreements at times.
13- Offer positive suggestions. Avoid criticism and nagging. Criticism and nagging can cause your student to become resentful or angry or develop low self-esteem.
14- Encourage independence and responsibility.
15- Keep your sense of humor.
16- Tell your student how much you love them. When they misbehave let them know it is their behaviour that you dislike, not them!!!
References
* Teaching and learning in the elementary school (John Jarolimek + Clifford D. Foster)
* The practice of English language teaching (Jeremy Harmer)
* Classroom teaching skills (James. M. Cooper)
Code of conduct done by students |
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