COMMUNICATION
The teacher uses knowledge of effective verbal and non-verbal communication techniques to foster active inquiry, collaboration, and supportive classroom
interaction.
There are a few other things that contribute to a great learning environment, namely, a good communication system. The students need to feel both valued and heard. When they express concerns or confusion, they need to get a sense that it is valued and appreciated. Even the material in the classroom should encourage the students to ask questions.
One way I like to encourage this in my classroom is through the use of students automatically doing a thumbs up symbol if they agree with the answer another student has just supplied. For example, when Nysean answered a question about the Three Little Pigs anyone who also agrees puts a thumb up in the air.
When adding on to Nysean's answer, students are encouraged to use a certain kind of supportive/collaborative language. For example, "I'd like to add on to what Nysean is saying..." or "I agree with Nysean because..." I find that this builds the self-esteem of students and allows for positive communication within the classroom.
I've also found that teacher-to-student behavior communication can be tricky, but successful when handled appropriately. In my classroom, the behavior rules and expectations have been laid out in advance. We have them posted along the walls. In addition, we have a clear documentation system that students can keep track of on
their own. I've found that the use of green, yellow and red cards to indicate behavior (green being great, red being a call home to parents), works really well. This is best accompanied by the chance to "redeem" themselves
throughout the day. My students have given me feedback that they like this system because they ultimately have
the final say in how their day will go, which promotes responsibility and holds them accountable without constant threats or yelling.
I believe that good communication skills extend beyond student teacher communication, too. Being in regular communication is key. One way I personally like doing this is through notes in the agenda. Many parents check their students agenda, so leaving individualized notes (good and bad) make for an easy way to reach out and update parents.
Attached below is a classroom management theory that I made earlier in my career as a Wagner College student. This was before I had much classroom experience, but still highlights the importance of positive behavioral modification and clear communication in my classroom.
interaction.
There are a few other things that contribute to a great learning environment, namely, a good communication system. The students need to feel both valued and heard. When they express concerns or confusion, they need to get a sense that it is valued and appreciated. Even the material in the classroom should encourage the students to ask questions.
One way I like to encourage this in my classroom is through the use of students automatically doing a thumbs up symbol if they agree with the answer another student has just supplied. For example, when Nysean answered a question about the Three Little Pigs anyone who also agrees puts a thumb up in the air.
When adding on to Nysean's answer, students are encouraged to use a certain kind of supportive/collaborative language. For example, "I'd like to add on to what Nysean is saying..." or "I agree with Nysean because..." I find that this builds the self-esteem of students and allows for positive communication within the classroom.
I've also found that teacher-to-student behavior communication can be tricky, but successful when handled appropriately. In my classroom, the behavior rules and expectations have been laid out in advance. We have them posted along the walls. In addition, we have a clear documentation system that students can keep track of on
their own. I've found that the use of green, yellow and red cards to indicate behavior (green being great, red being a call home to parents), works really well. This is best accompanied by the chance to "redeem" themselves
throughout the day. My students have given me feedback that they like this system because they ultimately have
the final say in how their day will go, which promotes responsibility and holds them accountable without constant threats or yelling.
I believe that good communication skills extend beyond student teacher communication, too. Being in regular communication is key. One way I personally like doing this is through notes in the agenda. Many parents check their students agenda, so leaving individualized notes (good and bad) make for an easy way to reach out and update parents.
Attached below is a classroom management theory that I made earlier in my career as a Wagner College student. This was before I had much classroom experience, but still highlights the importance of positive behavioral modification and clear communication in my classroom.
ashlee_deon_final_project_for_classroom_management_4.28.2010.ppt | |
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File Type: | ppt |