4 Step Model for Successful Classroom Management
Specifically Step 3: Proactive Techniques work well for me.
I move around the front of the room and I can barely talk without using gestures & vocal inflections!
This course helped me to move around the classroom into the ranks of the tables & desks which I thought would intimidate students but they are receptive!
I try to always greet the students coming into class, it makes them feel a little special to be acknowledged in a polite manner, no matter their age.
I've learned that proactive techniques really do preventing problems.
I agree that movement throughout the classroom is a method of holding the students attention and more importantly it is closer contact with students, showing them that you are interested enough to "mingle" instead of sitting behind a desk.
Proactive teaching means to me that all expectations of the student and the instructor should be understood on the first day of class. I do this by showing a word document that outlines my expectations in the form of what I call SOP's or "Standard Operating Procedures" for all of my classes. All students know in advance of what is expected for study habits, test, lab work, and behavior issues. During this presentation I also communicate to them what they can expect of me, including any time they need for tutoring extra help that I or the school can provide to make the class outcome a success.
I love the idea of a SOP . I think it is a great way to start a class by letting the students know what you expect from them and what they can expect from you. Moving around the classroom has always been helpful for letting the students know that you care about their education.
I have resolved many classroom management skills by evaluating the techniques of my fellow instructors. My quetion to everyone is what is your technique and why? I will be be best described as a controller/guide instructor.
Keith, awesome post and great suggestion. I also like how the SOP concept can easily be associated with the importance of preparing students for the workplace as they will be faced with SOP style expectations. Thanks for sharing.
James Jackson
Ginell, great question and would also be valuable if you can start us off by sharing why do you consider yourself a controller first and a guide second? Thanks for anything you can share.
James Jackson
