This article relates directly to my classroom. I was happy to see that I am currently implementing some of the steps from the article. There are some steps that I can implement right away such as: creating an intellectually safe classroom. This concept was so simple yet I haven't been doing it. The first independent task a child is given should be simple enough so everyone can do it without assistance. This allows for confidence to build and more effort in the following activities that become more challenging.
This article allows me to see that creating an active learning environment takes time, patience , and hard work. However, it also shows me that there are ways to begin increasing student engagement immediately and with instant feedback.
This will fit into my inquiry plan well I believe. I don't see any reason I could not implement all ten steps in my classroom.
Video: Power Teaching and Classroom Management
This video was very fun to watch. It is about using 6 techniques of power teaching to engage students and ensure comprehension of what is being taught. I don't use this in my classroom but I do try and find silly ways (dancing or using a funny voice) in order to re-focus my students for to get their attention. Watching this video showed me that classroom management isn't all about consequences and rewards. It's about making your classroom a fun and active environment. It seemed like when this occurs, classroom management takes care of itself. I would like to implement some of the six techniques of power teaching in my classroom; I think my kids would have fun with it.
Blog: Teaching Strategies for Motivating Students
This blog was mostly about responding positively to students and to not try and instill "fear" in them. Smiles and encouragement are much more motivating than harsh words and ridicule. I found these statements to be pretty obvious and I do stay away from negative words and always use encouragement with my students. There was one part of the blog that suggested bringing more humor into teaching. I am silly with my students often but I never thought about bringing in props. The blog suggested a clown nose or mustache to wear while teaching-just to make the day more interesting. I thought that was a fun idea...who says school always has to be serious? This blog just put more emphasis on making classroom management fun and that engagement and management go hand in hand.
I'm interested in the Power Teaching aspect of classroom management. Could you tell me the author of the article so I can look it up myself? I also liked what you said about it's not all about consequences and rewards. My students know the rules and know that I expect them to follow them. If I gave a color change every time I had to remind a student about something, they'd be at the principal's office all the time! :) Also, I rarely give out rewards. My students get a reward once a month -- a sticker if they have had any color changes but remember to turn in their color charts, and something from the treasure box if they have had no color changes for the month and remember to turn in their color chart. I know many teachers that rely on candy, stickers, and constant treats... I don't agree with this because the kids should not feel like they should be rewarded every time they do something right or make a good choice. They need to learn that those things are part of life! :)
ReplyDeleteI agree that classroom management is about building a classroom culture- one that develops respect for each other and self monitoring behavior that will extend past your classroom- not the candy giving kind of respect. That said- how about taking those ten steps and trying to implement them in your classroom and then taking notes and seeing which ones are most effective for you- that could be a cool inquiry.
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