How to Improve Classroom Management

How would you go about improving the classroom management?

Woolfolk defines Classroom management as” techniques used to maintain a healthy environment, relatively free of behaviour problems” (2013, 473) Classroom management is about creating a positive environment that is conducive to learning and teaching. Problems relating to student behaviours always occur and have to be addressed immediately. What is important is to prevent them before they could occur.

Donald mentions two types of preventative strategies i.e person- centred and environmental centred approaches. According to Donald person- centred approaches ‘ include developing conflict management , problem solving, communication, assertiveness, and other relevant life- skills for both yourself and your students” whereas environmental centred approaches “ involve developing learning environment where positive interpersonal relations based on mutual respect are possible” (2010,145) In class it means we must develop rules procedures and routines that are acceptable by all.

Donald (2010, 145-146) suggests the following strategies to improve classroom management which I will also implement in my class:

• Foster a democratic learning environment

• Set clear rules and procedure i.e. code of conduct

• Set clear and realistic expectations

• Provide a good balance between structure and freedom

• Motivate learners

• Address factors that maintain student misbehaviour

• Reward positive behaviour

• Be a good role model

• Be flexible in teaching so that you meet different styles

• Be sensitive to classroom dynamics and management appropriately

• Be fair and consistent

• Be accepting yet set clear limits and be firm about maintaining them

• Work with the family where possible

Encouraging learner participation in decision making leads to learners being more co-operative and committed to decision affecting all of them. This result in a democratic classroom. Donald states that in democratic classroom...