Module 1 discussion topics and concepts

Classroom Management: How Teachers Can Appropriately Handle a Discipline Problem

Classroom Management:

How Teachers Can Appropriately Handle a Discipline Problem

Many teachers today are finding that disciplinary problems are becoming a bigger problem within the school system than they used to be. That's why it's so important that each individual teach create a classroom management system, which they can combine with an effective discipline plan. It's important that teachers learn how to appropriately handle discipline problems to not only keep the students in order, but also to avoid getting into any trouble themselves.

Teachers should be encouraged to begin each class period with a positive attitude. When students see that their teacher (and mentor) is walking into the classroom with a positive attitude, not to mention very high standards, the students tend to want to follow the teacher's lead. Teachers who struggle with attitude problems and negative attitudes themselves often find they have a great deal more trouble with their students than teachers who carry on a positive outlook. The teacher's overall attitude and approach to the classroom is an extremely important aspect of classroom management.

In order to avoid complete chaos within the classroom, it's just as important that the teacher arrive to school completely prepared. This means that the teacher has all lessons at hand for each day. Lessons should be planned, organized and materials needed for each lesson should be readily available. This is important to the discipline side of the classroom, because it allows the teacher to focus on the students, their attitudes and most importantly, their lessons. Often times, things will be overlooked if a teacher is distracted because of an unorganized classroom.

Transitions between lessons should be smooth and it's just as important that the lessons don't drag on and that the students aren't bored. Students tend to act out more if they are bored, which causes classroom disruption and means more disciplinary action. Teachers should minimize all classroom interruptions as much as possible. Split up the workday with various activities to keep students involved and sharp.

Teachers should watch closely as students enter the classroom at the beginning of the period. This is a time when problems may be present to the teacher. If a teacher suspects that a student may have a problem during class, the teacher may be able to head off the problem before it begins. For example, if a student walks into the classroom with a negative outlook, the teacher might speak with the student before class begins. This not only may allow the student to vent, but the teacher may also get to the root of a possible problem before it occurs within the classroom.