Research-Backed Strategies for Better Classroom Management

Summary

This video explores six common classroom management mistakes and research-backed strategies to improve student behavior. It highlights that misbehavior often stems from boredom, academic frustration, or emotional issues. Rather than over-correcting, teachers should focus on reinforcing positive behavior, avoiding public shaming, and addressing misbehavior privately. Building strong relationships, practicing fairness, and recognizing implicit biases are key to creating an inclusive classroom. By understanding underlying issues and fostering a supportive environment, teachers can effectively manage behavior and promote a positive learning atmosphere.

Takeaways

• 😀 Misbehavior or inattention in students may stem from boredom, restlessness, or other underlying causes, not just defiance.
• 😀 It's important to look for patterns in student behavior to understand the root causes, and check in with students to identify the issue.
• 😀 Academic frustration is a common cause of misbehavior, with 20% of cases linked to misunderstandings or difficult assignments.
• 😀 Not all misbehavior needs to be addressed immediately, as overcorrecting can worsen the situation in the long term.
• 😀 Negative attention can marginalize students, leading to further behavioral problems, so it's better to highlight positive behavior.
• 😀 Publicly calling out students for misbehavior (e.g., using data walls or behavior charts) does not improve conduct.
• 😀 Instead of public shaming, approach students privately to discuss their misbehavior and encourage reflection and responsibility.
• 😀 Teachers should invest emotional labor into building relationships and use proactive strategies like positive greetings and co-creating classroom norms.
• 😀 Demand for compliance often leads to rebellion, testing boundaries, or power struggles, so it's essential to foster cooperation and mutual respect.
• 😀 Implicit biases can affect how students are disciplined, with research showing black students often receive fewer warnings than their white peers.
• 😀 Teachers should regularly reflect on and review their disciplinary practices to ensure fairness and avoid reinforcing biases.

Q & A

What are some of the common reasons behind student misbehavior in the classroom?

Student misbehavior can stem from various factors such as boredom, restlessness, seeking attention from peers, behavioral disorders, or struggles with issues at home. In some cases, misbehavior is also a part of a child's social and emotional development.

Why is it important to understand the underlying reasons behind student misbehavior?

Understanding the underlying reasons for misbehavior allows teachers to identify and address the root cause rather than simply reacting to the behavior itself. This helps in providing appropriate support and solutions for each student.

How does academic frustration contribute to student misbehavior?

Academic frustration, where students do not understand an assignment or find it too difficult, can lead to misbehavior. This often happens because misbehavior becomes an outlet for their disappointment and frustration.

What approach should teachers take when dealing with student misbehavior instead of trying to fix all misbehavior?

Rather than attempting to fix all misbehavior, teachers should focus on highlighting positive conduct. Recognizing achievements like completing work on time or transitioning smoothly between activities helps promote a positive classroom environment.

Why might public displays of misbehavior, such as behavior charts, be ineffective in improving student conduct?

Public displays of misbehavior, such as behavior charts or Data Walls, do not improve student conduct. In fact, they can make students feel marginalized, which may worsen the behavior over time. Instead, private, one-on-one discussions with the student are more effective.

What is the recommended approach for teachers when addressing misbehavior privately with students?

Teachers should approach students privately to discuss misbehavior, encouraging them to reflect on their actions, understand the reasons behind their behavior, and take responsibility for addressing the issue.

How can teachers prevent power struggles and rebellion from students?

Teachers can prevent power struggles and rebellion by adopting proactive strategies such as greeting students positively at the door, co-creating classroom norms, and building strong, supportive relationships with students.

Why is it important for teachers to treat all students equally and fairly?

It is crucial for teachers to treat all students equally and fairly to avoid biases that could negatively impact certain students. Research has shown that teachers sometimes give black students fewer warnings for misbehavior compared to their white peers, which can contribute to inequities in discipline.

How can teachers address their own implicit biases in the classroom?

Teachers can address their implicit biases by reflecting on their own actions and regularly reviewing their disciplinary measures. This allows them to identify areas where biases may exist and work towards ensuring fair treatment for all students.

What role do broader discipline policies play in addressing misbehavior in schools?

While broader discipline policies are crucial in addressing systemic issues, teachers can take immediate action within the classroom by reflecting on their own practices and making adjustments to ensure that students are treated with fairness and respect.