Effective Classroom Management

This concept of classroom management represents the way a teacher organizes the classroom, the learners and the whole teaching process in order to make the lesson effective. It makes references to the management techniques used in the classroom and also the activities that are to be performed. Effective classroom management ensures support for students’ taking an active part in the classroom and at the same time, it guarantees success of the lesson. The teacher must be able to organize all aspects of the classroom: the seating, the lesson stages, the lesson cohesion, transition from activity to activity, the interaction in the classroom, the supporting teaching aids and materials; discipline in the classroom and the ways of dealing with unexpected situations.

One of the most important factors in the classroom is the positive climate that facilitates learning and it represents the environment in which learners feel safe and comfortable. It also matters the physical environment, the teacher’s attitude the learning process.

Generally speaking, the effective teacher is the one who displays professional and humane gestures. He is the one who has to have different qualities, from being a great human, honest and approachable, with positive thinking, a well organized man that proves respect, inspires confidence, trusts people and empathizes with students.

At the same time, it is necessary that the teacher should encourage the spirit of interdependence in the classroom. This can be done, among other things by creating appropriate seating arrangements that facilitates students’ interacting with colleagues, sharing responsibilities and knowing each other better.

There also should be a good rapport ensured by the teacher’s interest in each student, the feedback offered on each student’s progress, the teacher’s treating students in a fair manner, the balance between praise and criticism.

It is already an established fact that the teachers can work with alternative text-books in schools and they have the possibility to choose the one that best fits their students. There are many factors that a teacher should take into consideration. Tanner and Green recommend the use of the MATERIALS. The acronym sends to the following elements that are meant to be observed: Method, Appearance, Teacher, Extras, Realistic, Interesting, Affordable, Level and Skills.

Another concept that is important is the teaching space. The effective teaching space contributes to the success of teaching by being more confident and communicative in the process of teaching-learning. Some teachers prefer to sit or stand during the lesson. When the teacher prefers sitting during the lesson, he/she generally has less control over the students. When the teacher is standing it should be prepared with interesting and attractive materials so he could obtain the students’ attention and interest.

When talking about teacher- talking time it expresses the amount of time-talking. This idea is linked with the amount of information the teacher offers to the students and the instructions that he or she gives, the questioning techniques and the feedback that the teacher propose. The eye contact is a part of the nonverbal code used in the classroom and it plays an important role especially in establishing a great relation between teacher-students. We must have in mind that a fix and insistent look may sometimes make students lose confidence and forget everything they learned so far. Students must know that they are watched, but not suffocated.

Within the nonverbal code, body language represents a good way to make ideas clearer and understandable in the classroom communication and improves teaching efficiency. The teacher smiling encourages students meanwhile the teacher’s frowning the eyebrows can signal that something is incorrect.

Humanistic techniques have brought significant changes in the classroom activity because they concentrate on interaction and achieving objectives in the teaching-learning process. There should be different types of interaction such as: TT (teacher talks) , T-S (teacher –student), S-T (student-teacher), S-S (student-student), GW (group work), PW (pair-work), IW (Individual work)

One of the main objectives is the responsibility of the teacher to raise students’ motivation by using appropriate strategies and techniques. The amount of motivation is determined by the students’ age, family, school education, interests or objectives in life. The teacher should attract the students by using simple language and adequate intonation and calm voice, by being consistent and decisive. On the other hand, the teacher should pose as a role-model.

By implementing these strategies, teachers can create a classroom atmosphere that promotes learning, respect, and collaboration, ultimately leading to better educational outcomes for students. Effective classroom management is crucial for fostering a productive learning environment. Here are some essential strategies to enhance classroom management:

1. Establish Clear Expectations: Clearly define rules and procedures at the start of the school year. Ensure that students understand what is expected in terms of behavior and academic performance.

2. Build Relationships: Develop strong, positive relationships with your students. Show genuine interest in their lives, listen to their concerns, and create a supportive atmosphere that encourages respect and cooperation.

3. Consistent Routines: Implement consistent daily routines to help students know what to expect. This predictability reduces anxiety and allows them to focus on learning.

4. Engaging Instruction: Use a variety of engaging teaching methods to maintain student interest. Incorporate hands-on activities, group work, and technology to cater to different learning styles.

5. Positive Reinforcement: Recognize and reward positive behavior through verbal praise, a points system, or small rewards. This encourages students to continue exhibiting good behavior.

6. Effective Communication: Maintain open lines of communication with students and parents. Regularly update them on progress and address any issues that arise.

7. Proactive Discipline: Address behavioral issues promptly and fairly. Use a proactive approach to prevent problems before they escalate, applying consequences consistently.

8. Create a Safe Environment: Ensure that the classroom is a safe space for all students, both physically and emotionally. Students should feel comfortable expressing themselves without fear of judgment.

9. Adaptability: Be flexible and willing to adjust your strategies based on what works best for your students. Each class may have different dynamics, and adaptability can help meet their needs.

10. Reflect and Improve: Regularly reflect on your classroom management practices. Seek feedback from colleagues and be open to making changes to enhance the learning environment.

In conclusion, nowadays, most teachers approach a modern way of teaching students by observing their way of understanding and offering them a certain confidence in the classroom. This is way the classroom management must be effective planned and structured.

 

prof. Ioana Alina Trandafir

Liceul Tehnologic Anghel Saligny, Bacău (Bacău) , România
Profil iTeach: iteach.ro/profesor/ioana.trandafir

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