One of the difficulties faced by the teachers is the classroom management. According to Brophy (2006), “Classroom management refers to actions taken to create and maintain a learning environment conducive to successful instruction (arranging the physical environment, establishing rules and procedures, maintaining students’ attention to lessons and engagement in activities).” Teachers as the facilitator of learning should impose rules and regulations to achieve a safe and orderly classroom, as well as the improvement of the intellectual, emotional and social perspectives of the students.   They should be observed with sternness and firmness on the consistency of their rules to prevent misbehavior and disruptions.

On my second year of teaching, I had learned different strategies on how to handle my class. Teaching in a public school is great challenge for me. As a teacher, my primary goal is to provide students with positive learning opportunities. With a variety of disorders and increase of diversity, classroom management is really challenging.  This led me in finding ways how to manage my students having varied personalities and behavior so I adapted the strategies for classroom management by Rebecca Huth. The first strategy I learned is the “ Teacher Awareness”. Teachers should be aware of their rules to impose to their students. They should create four to six classroom rules which are simple, specific, clear and measurable. Rules should be posted, stated positively and reviewed every day to achieve consistency. In addition, if the rule got violated, the teacher should explain what the student did wrong in good way to avoid scars on the teacher-student relationship. The second one is “ Creating Conducive Environment” in which teachers should give focus on the physical aspect of the classroom. It should be well-ventilated, clean and promotes safety and security among the students.. A proper environment also highlights the rapport between the teacher and the student. The environment should be responsive and supportive to achieve successful classroom management. Finally, “ Providing Guidance,” teachers are responsible in guiding their students. According to Mundschenk et al. (2011) “ the analogy of the teacher as an air traffic controller for effective classroom management.” This article addresses the challenges of classroom management when attempting to hold all students academically accountable, including those with emotional or behavioral disorders. The reality is, teachers are in-charge of handling broader scope of behaviors. As the pillars of education, we need to respond effectively and efficiently to disruptive behaviors. Students must also be aware that their own behavior can reinforce inappropriate behavior.

            Teachers of all experience levels struggle with classroom management. If a teacher cannot handle his/her students, the class will be in a complete chaos. Equipping one’s self with the tools necessary help achieve learning and reduce stress.

Reference

Barbetta, P. M., Norona, K. L., & Bicard, D. F. (2005). Classroom behavior management: A dozen common mistakes and what to do instead. Preventing School Failure: Alternative Education for Children and Youth, 49(3), 11-19.

By: Camille Anne C. Geronia