An effective classroom management plan is essential which includes HOW everything will be accomplished. You may even want to have students practice things like getting into small groups.There should be work for students to do while attendance is taken, the classroom period should be over planned so that there is not any "down" time. Students should be instructed in how to ask a question. The teacher should arrive on time or early and have any equipment and supplies set up.There should be a routine for dismissing class, procedures for dismissal, entering
Elizabeth, the big takeaway here is a good guide knows how best to mix in control and empathy. That is what makes them a guide and a great teacher.
James Jackson
I believe that all instructors need a balanced combination of The Guide and The Controller, with a touch of The Buddy mixed in to ensure the students know the Instructor is approachable.
It is essential that an instructor not only know the material, but present it to the students in a way that builds enthusiasm and that they can more easily relate to. In addition, they want to be personable but not overly friendly with the students as this can lead to the material not really being covered well.
Sabrina, what changes do you feel you need to make in your own classroom management style to become that perfect guide? Thanks for anything you can share.
James Jackson
The perfect formula of Buddy+Controller=Guide is an excellent equation for an instructor to follow as you will have excellent rapport with your students treating them with respect and kindness but at the same time being organized, productive and motivational.
I thoroughly enjoyed this learning experience.As,I start another semester it is a good reminder and reinforcement of the management and discipline goals we need to attain.Yes,a true instructor needs to be flexible and yet in control to achieve the ultimate learning experience for the students.
Traits that are important for good classroom management is one that will be based around key principal that will promote and display a good learning and interactive environment for the students and a goal orientated one for the instructor. The instructor should have the teaching qualities in which they are able to make a good first impression and be able to manage that same level throughout the course. The instructor should structure themselves to be a guide/mentor for the students to emulate; should avoid student approach of been their buddy, controller, and apathetic. Upon making a good first impression the instructor will be able to establish the mood for the class to be engaging and encouraging. Will be able to present and follow through with a plan for overall course success with lesson plans and learning activities that utilizes proactive techniques when possible.
That is so revealing because I felt the same way. I felt bad when I identified a little of myself as a "buddy." A proper balanced is probably the most effective way.
A an Instructor you must earn the respect and trust of the students, This is achieved through the knowledge you possess, the tone you set and the way you engage each student. However not all students or classes of students are the same and you have be able to adjust and manage them accordingly in order to properly deliver the subject material.
A good instructor should be a guide, someone who is compassionate about the welfare of students and who exhibits concern for the learning environment. High expectations, active learning, consistent rules, and wise and effective use of class time are appropriate. I have found that having the alternate activity ready is very helpful. Effective teachers should always plan for alternate activities in case a guest speaker has to cancel or the audiovisual equipment does not work.
An Instructor needs to be a good listener along w/everything else mentioned. You have to be able to hear what the student is not saying. There are is lot of insight into how a student replies. you can hear angst,nonchalance,passion,anger, sadness and so on. Just listen, don't think about what your response is until the student has finished their comment
The diversity of students in a class dictates the characteristics of an instructor for good classroom management except that of an apathete. The controller classroom management strategies for more structured planning and execution of lesson greatly helps students who did not practice organized thinking skills or who were not conditioned to think orderly, these are students who do work or think "scattered all over the page", these could be observed when students work in solving a problem or following instructions to complete hands-on work or task.
I feel a successful instructor is knowledgeable and confident about the core course material. An instructor must have a strong presence in the classroom and be able to present the material to thier class in a way they will relate to and understand. Meaning the instructor has to be able to "read" thier classes tempermant and adjust thier learning style as required that session.
I feel being well organized and orderly is a major part in Classroom Management. If you display enthusiasm for the subject, you will maximize the students learning potential.
The first thing I like to do in all of my classes is get a feeling of who is in the audience. This is done during the Introduction. I asked everyone to please stand and tell me your name (and what you want to be call by like Fred instead of Frederic), Where you are from, Why you are here, and what you plan to do with this course or program in the future? Questions like these give me a lot about the individual character I am teaching. Lets me know if they are quiet, or informative, likes to talk about him or herself, etc. This is always helpful to break the ice and get the participation needed to have a successful program or class. I feel the Student's traits are very important too, but the instructor has to show he or she cares about the student.
1. Being on time
2. Starting the class and ending it on time
3. Moving around the room
4. being patient with students who need more help
5. Be cheerful and smile
6. Know personal problems of students
7. know their names
8. being prepared for class
9. have handouts that clarify the content of the day
These are some that have helped
OOps, sorry...should be patience not patients!
I feel that at the very basic level, instructors characteristics/traits include: patients and a kind willingness to teach a subject to adults without "baby-ing" them.
Closely followed by knowing my own subject matter and myself being able to assure all students follow the rules and gain the expected knowledge of the subject.
Instructors have to have almost extra sensory talents. The instructor needs to be able to read the collective energy being offered by the class as a group. This is effective as a way to begin to understand the individual personalities and characteristics to enhance the educational experience.
