Why is classroom management important
The learning system in schools is based on the relationships between the teachers and the students. The quality of knowledge children receive depends on lesson quality, mutual relationships, and classroom atmosphere. Effective learning in school demands certain rules, i.e. successful classroom management.
The goal of this teaching plan is to create and implement rules for effective teaching and learning in the classroom. It is designed by teachers and other educational experts with the aim of providing a work environment conducive to knowledge acquisition. Good classroom management involves:
- A detailed lesson plan that defines what each lesson will look like, i.e. how the material will be covered
- Defined rules of behavior in the classroom (asking for permission to speak, mutual communication, using electronic devices, etc.)
- Reward system defined ways to showcase desired behaviors
- Creating a positive atmosphere where each student can make progress and demonstrate their talents.
If the plan is good, its implementation will bring numerous benefits, primarily for students.
5 reasons why classroom management is essential
The classroom is a place where many different characters need to work together. There are various classroom management strategies teachers can implement so as to help students develop. They can be divided into three levels:
- Tier 1: General instructions – rules of conduct and goals defined by educational institutions
- Tier 2: Rules for working with smaller groups – strategies for teaching children that demand a personalized approach (conflict resolution, mentoring, developing social skills, etc.)
- Tier 3: Individual work – methods for working with students who demand special attention (special education).
The aim of these methods is to establish a system where children will be able to reach their full potential and feel comfortable and safe. If the teacher establishes an effective classroom where everyone respects everyone else, they will get the following results:
1. Working environment for students
Learning is a process that requires certain preparations that enable students to focus on their tasks. Much depends on the teacher, because it is teachers who create an environment conducive to effective teaching and learning. In the first place, the classroom should be designed and organized so as to inspire students to focus on their tasks. An experienced teacher knows how to make use of the environment and involve children in activities in order to solve tasks together. This way, teachers avoid passivity and negative behavior that arises from boredom and lack of understanding of the material.
2. Teachers and students respect each other
However, in order to achieve successful classroom work, the teacher must establish their authority from the outset and create a safe place, eliminating any disruptive behavior. Respect is established by defining rules of conduct in the classroom and ways to communicate with each other. If the rules are fair and apply equally to all, and if the teacher is consistent in their implementation, students will quickly adopt the desired patterns of behavior. This way, class begins to function as a community where everyone knows their role, and respects boundaries.
It is the best way to create a sense of community and respect in the classroom which consequently leads to fewer conflicts among students, such as cases of bullying. The idea is that everyone should feel respected and appreciated in their environment, and to trust their teachers.
3. Supports students’ individual needs
Classrooms typically consist of a group of children with different aspirations and characteristics. It is the teacher’s role to establish a work atmosphere, recognize individual needs of their students, and provide them with adequate attention. Every student is unique; some may need additional explanations regarding a lesson, while others who are particularly gifted or talented may need additional challenges. With the right approach, students in the classroom will be encouraged to express their opinion or ask for help.
4. Social and emotional development
Effective classroom management allows the teacher not only to focus on learning, but also on students’ social and emotional development. These involve skills that help children to successfully cope in different situations, gain self-confidence, understand their own advantages and shortcomings, and to make the best possible decisions. It is clear that these are very important qualities that can positively impact not only one’s school performance, but success in all other areas of life as well.
If the classroom environment is inadequate, students’ emotional development may often be neglected. However, with a little effort and a sound management plan, the teacher will have enough time and energy to dedicate themselves to this important segment of education. This is primarily possible because these skills can be acquired simultaneously with the teaching material, for example, by combining important lessons in Art, Math and English with social-emotional skills.
5. Flexible classroom environment
By understanding children’s needs, teachers can create a positive classroom environment that facilitates learning and familiarizes students with important topics. However, it should be noted that children’s development is a dynamic category and that the teacher must be flexible and recognize their needs at the right time. This can be done if they create a student-centered learning environment.
Of course, it is necessary to strike a balance between the needs of students and the needs of the teacher. The space must be functional in order to be able to maintain quality instruction, and achieve the desired effect: a satisfied child who learns with understanding and with the full support of the teacher. To realize the full potential of a good classroom, it is necessary to allow children to give suggestions regarding the workspace.
Of course, that does not mean that the classroom will turn into a playground, but designing space together will help children to realize that it is their space. They will, thus, feel more comfortable which will positively influence the work process, and overall development.
Classroom management plays an important role in children’s development
Classroom management is an important skill that every teacher should possess. Student achievement greatly depends on the knowledge acquired in the classroom. With the right approach, teachers can positively influence student behavior, thus facilitating children’s learning process and personal development. By using classroom management strategies, it is possible to get the most out of one’s students and help them to become successful and well-educated adults.
The path toward that goal demands a lot of effort, creativity, patience, and professional development from the teacher. However, the result is a learning classroom where students and teachers (even parents) work together to achieve a common goal. Many modern schools that can boast exceptionally successful students, both in terms of education and in terms of professional careers, are proof that this is possible. Knowing that they have helped children to fulfill their dreams and become successful people is perhaps the greatest reward for any teacher.
