Thank you, and I will try to manage a push forward plan a bit better to have the time to do just that...
James
James, the role of the instructor is to stay on track with the lesson plan. If no one is getting it then alterations must be made. If a few are holding the class back then this is where the instructor has to be strong and continue moving forward. After class meetings or tutoring is a realistic part of the entire learning puzzle. Collaboration with the administration and peer instructors is also a vital tool.
James Jackson
Matthew, you have a valid point. What discussions do you engage with your students that seem to have a sense of entitlement? Learning the deeper rooted motivations or expectations of such students can be very beneficial in understanding your students. I would also be interested in how you establish the expectations of your students early in the class. I have found it critical to discuss my expectations and understanding their expectations as early as possible.
James Jackson
I have had a few students tell me that they do not get/understand the block of instruction on how to do a task. Reviewing back to what was just discussed and then giving different examples generally does the trick. But for the students that just don't want to comprehend or want to see me have to explain it another way and then another, basically making moving forward very difficult. (Arrogant / Disruptive) Being not able to move forward with the lesson because it is tied into the next lesson/task; I have had to break the lesson down into point, show, know and grow. Point out what it is they are doing, show Why they are doing it, Know that they cannot do the task if they don’t do the two things, and grow how they would DO the task. This Generally Works, but having them get a tutor after this guidance is normally the end result to have to move on. Not holding up the class. This is needed, mainly for the sake of them just not wanting to learn or hear it from me. Especially if it is Easy or Common information that is given.
I agree and believe that it is totally our job as educators to attempt to break through the barriers that our students have impeading gthem from learning. If that requires me to alter my style or look at the situation from a different angle so be it. Where I have issue is with students that feel entitled to the education. The ones that feel the burden of education is on "my" shoulders and dont feel the need to step up themselves.
octavia, would love to hear of your results after you implement your plan. Please report back to the group so we all may learn from your experiences.
James Jackson
I agree, understanding of the different types of instructors and their characteristics is very helpful in order for us to practice the better techniques to make them a habit. The instructor behavior management tips are just as valuable.
I used to think that the "controller" was the best option to manage the classroom and also to cover all the topics in the curriculum, the environment was stressfull for the students and i tried to put some aspects of the "buddy" in my classes and i can tell it actually worked. It made me be a better "guide" for my students. In order to enhance my classroom management style i will start using more the I language instead of the You language.
Irma, another technique to consider is to have a class discussion about what changes would they like to see in the classroom to keep their attention and gain their full engagement. One aspect of quality instruction is to consider changes to your own delivery methods to keep students engaged.
James Jackson
Marie, great technique. Setting the stage day one is critical. Also important to get students directly engaged with the consequences of going outside the classroom boundaries. Once the initial rules are established and discussed, implementation is easier and control is rarely lost. Thanks for sharing.
James Jackson
I believe that classroom management should always begin on the first day of class. What I like to do is on the first day of class I do an introduction of myself, and I have each student introduce themselves (ICEBREAKER) then I go over a brief explanation of the class rules, curriculum and the expectations that will need to be achieved.
I feel that this should be done so that the students are comfortable and they are seeing that you are in control but yet you are giving them guidance and you will gain your students respect and your students will establish efforts to following the rules and directions that are being enforced. Also I strongly believe that all rules and expectations should be addressed throughout the duration of their course so that you have control of your class and your students do not get disruptive.
Many students enjoy side conversations while I am lecturing. I find this very disruptive and inappropiate behavior. When this occurs I stand in front of the students talking and ask one of them a question or ask them to share their conversation with the class.
Mary, have you considered discussing the classroom rules with the students on the first day of classes? Look for different games or classroom exercises that get your students engaged and talking about the classroom rules. You should even consider talking about how students want to be reminded about the classroom rules. What do they expect to take place when they do not follow the rules. This will make for a much smoother situation when you need to take action on a student not following the rules.
James Jackson
Mary, the more students feel you are engaged with them and working to understand their needs and life challenges the more they will come to respect you and learn from you. I am not suggesting that you attempt to be their friend but it is critical you show them you are a concerned instructor interested in their success.
James Jackson
One of the things that I thought was great Idea was talking to students after class when they are late or absent. I find that it lets them know we are noticing these these things and that we want to help them get through what ever obsticles they are running into and also lets me know as an instructor where the students are coming from helps me be more understanding, communication is great.
to improve my classroom management I have given students a liist of classroom rules have them take home, review, sign and return to me the next day. further improvements I can do is having afterschool discussions with paperwork about certain student behaviors mostly attendance and tardies
francis, thanks for sharing your direct experiences with how the different class management styles can make a difference. How long did it take you to make this transition?
James Jackson
Charles, one method to consider is a baseline study of the current skills, abilities and product knowledge of the current faculty. You can then conduct a gap analysis of the current baseline information and where you feel things need to go for a positive impact on your institution. Resources such as these can require some level of budget while others are more time intensive but can be done at little or no cost. The key is to have total acceptance by the institution and by all the faculty.
James Jackson
Having a better understanding of the different types of instructors and their characteristics affords me the opportunity to develop a better ongoing and instructor specific training program. While we have this type of training in place, it is more general and is desinged to work with the instructors collectively. I can see where more individual instructor analysis is needed and development of training plans that address the individual instructor's specific needs. This instructor behavior modification will have a double benefit. It will make the classroom transition more successful and by meeting these expectations, it will accomplish the overall objective of the class itself.
I agree in that classroom management is critical to the success of the class from the very beginning. Students are normally apprehensive when they first start a class and it's the instructors responsibility to make this transition as smooth as possible. The examples and suggestions that are included in the four-step model are excellent. At my school, we require instructors to implement the management style and plan from day one. Making a good first impression, Having a positive attitude, Using proactive techniques, The Physical layout of the room, Moving around the classroom during class activities, Arriving to class 15 minutes prior to the start of class and greeting the students as they arrive are just some of the many factors that help make that first day of the class successful. Additionally, this first day success leaves a lasting impression for the remainder of the class.
