Classroom management through positive teacher-student relationships and expectations

Classroom Management - 4 Personal Belief Systems

Individual student learning abilities in the classroom vary tremendously based on a child's culture, upbringing, socio-economic status, background and the amount of support they receive, at home and from their teachers. This is one reason it is so important to classroom management that teachers build strong relationships with students. Teachers can build strong relationships with students by clearly identifying their expectations for students, and actively listening to students and engaging students in interactive ways while teaching (Givner, Lane & Pierson, 2003).

Responsibility as Classroom Teacher to Ensure Student Learning

Teachers have an obligation to ensure students learn in a positive and proactive environment. The only way to build a proactive environment is to create one where students learn to trust teachers. Teachers must go beyond showing respect for students; they must ask the same in return. Disciplinary rules should be set so students know the consequences of violating the rules. Teachers very much influence student behavior, as much as their peers or family members do. This is why it is so important teachers take an active role in student learning.

What Is Accomplished by Building Positive Relationships With Students?

Building relationships with students helps teachers create a connection with students, so students identify with their instructor easily. It creates an environment where co-creation or proactive learning can occur. Students have higher self-esteem because they see themselves as active participants rather than outsiders in the classroom environment (Givner, Lane & Pierson, 2003). This in turn allows students the opportunity to build trusting relationships with the teacher and with other students, creating an environment that maximizes learning and minimizes disruption.

Why Meaningful Content & Relevant Content is Important

Far too often students complain of boredom in the classroom, and this can lead to behavioral problems and disciplinary problems in the classroom. Teachers can avoid this by providing meaningful and relevant content to students. Students that learn interesting and meaningful content can also apply their knowledge to the real world, so they are better able to cope with challenges presented in their community and throughout their academic careers.

Students need to learn in an environment where they can apply the materials they learn to the world in which they live. When teachers use real life examples when demonstrating concepts, students are more likely to respond in a positive manner (Givner, Lane & Pierson, 2003). Teachers can facilitate this by encouraging students to provide their own examples and experiences when explaining solutions to problems or demonstrating creative thinking.