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Behaviour and Classroom Management
During our course, we were asked to maintain a journal and reflect on various topics at times. I had listed some of the strategies I use as a teacher in my classroom to address the four basic needs, fun, freeedom, competence, and sense of belonging in my journal as classroom management tools.
The Ministry definition for the behaviour exceptionality states the following:
A learning disorder characterized by specific behaviour problems over such a period of time, and to such a marked degree, and or such a nature, as to adversely affect educational performance, and that may be accompanied by one or more of the following:
An inability to build or maintain interpersonal relationships Excessive fears or anxieties A tendency to compulsive reactions An inability to learn that cannot be traced to intellectual, sensory, or other health factors, or any combination thereof.
Needs of Students
We all have basic needs and this is no different for students. We need to have fun, have freedom, feel competent and have a sense of belonging. When a child misbehaves, what we are seeing is an outward manifestation that one of these four needs is not being met. Rather than focusing on the behavioural symptom, focus on the underlying need not being met as a starting point. This does not mean that the teacher doesn't address the misbehaviour but it does mean that the teacher needs to look deeper than the outward symptoms to help the child make a change in response over time.
Some of the strategies I use in my class are:
1) I use restorative approach techniques. Restorative approach to conflict consists of 5 questions. a) What happened? 2) What were you thinking at that time? 3) What have you thought about since? 4) Who has been affected by what you have done? 5) What do you think you need to do to make things right? These questions allow the students to reflect on their wrongdoing and realize their mistake. It encourages them to work towards improving things and take responsibility.
2) I have set firm classroom rules in the class. The expectations and consequences are clear to the students. Rules must make sense and should be accepted by the students. Extrinsic reward system is minimal in my classroom. Natural and logical consequences require children to be responsible for their own behaviour.
3)I give students choices and give them opportunity to decide. They have the option to try and improve.
4) It is important for any student to feel important and valued. Appreciation and praise are must when a child achieves or accomplishes something.
5) Learning can only take place when the child is comfortable to take risks. A fearful atmosphere in the class does not help the child to learn. Learning should take place in a fun filled atmosphere.
6) Communication with parents, administration,and other teachers is important. The safety and security of children is my first priority and in certan cases if I need the help of others (administrative staff or colleagues), Ido not hesitate to seek it.