I agree Tom-Tom.... Good classroom management begins on the first day of school. Whether a first year teacher or a veteran, setting the tone becomes the key to on-going classroom management. Too often, teachers take extreme positions for a variety of motivations and they usually find that withdrawing from unrealistic methods may create entirely new issues. Establishing a workable class environment in which goals are achieved involves both the “bigger picture” and attending to daily details.
My classes have students fresh out of High School and those who are returning to learning with years of life experiences. You're absolutely correct that maintaining mutual respect is critical to their learning and comprehension. I do, however, take them to the edge of their comfort zones and beyond to maximize the impact of learning new material.
I find that using simulations, games, role plays, and other interactive activities is the best way to get them to work while uncomfortable yet maintain the relative security of the classroom. I stress the learning side rather than the assessment side, i.e. "you're allowed to make mistakes and practice the concepts" versus "you're going to be tested on this!"
Even though we must be the expert in the subject-at-hand, it is imperative to respect our students and what they bring to the table. I learn something new from students every day! Thanks for your observations,
Jay Hollowell
ED107
