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Classroom Management

            Classroom management for me is defined as strategies done in class depending on the class need.  Sensitivity to certain situation is classroom management.  To identify a group of people that can work together is classroom management.  Bottom line is, to be able to succeed in teaching that would provide a nurturing learning environment, classroom management must take place. 

            It takes years to learn classroom management because every class is different.  You may be successful in handling a class at some point and then find yourself frustrated at some other class.  It is a process of learning behaviour and knowing how to deal with it. 

            Setting an expectation at the beginning of every class is a must. I have this practice that I ask students on what they expect in class before I tell them my set of expectations.  We agree on when cell phones can be used, bathroom breaks, attendance and Q&A time. We write all the rules of expectation in an easel which everybody signs after we all agree. 

            One thing that I have done effectively is starting the class on time especially after a break.  It is a fact that most students’ especially adult learners, at least in my country, are not really disciplined when it comes to being on time.  One practice that I do is that I turn on the projector and start on time after a scheduled break time.  This practice was very effective in making sure that they follow time schedule properly and have the sense of time. This practice prepared them in what was expected of them after training. 

            Grouping is a very effective way to learn from each other.  Identifying who’s at ease working together and which appropriate level goes together makes sure that they are learning.  They pick up best practices from each group members and those who are behind tries to catch up and be better learners. 

            One-on-one session is also a great practice that I learned in dealing with those whom I identify as falling behind.  Extra time and guidance is needed to these kinds of learners.  But to make sure they don’t get embarrassed, the expectation is that all learners will have a one-on-one session with me and make sure to advance those who are progressive learners.

            I agree to what Nathan Hall mentioned about the backup activities.   It is one way of advancing students learn the next level or drill them with current lesson.  I find this very effective to make sure everybody is busy while giving some time to those who need help or one on one attention.  Being prepared to attend to fast progressive learners is a great way of classroom management.

Classroom management is an immense responsibility that requires all of a teachers senses. It requires preparation, anticipation, problem solving, decision making, time management, cultural sensitivity, diverse decorum, and passionate commitment. Preparation alone considers effort to know all student levels and needs.  Anticipation to these needs can be projected or not but needs to be problem solved.  The teachers’ decision making sometimes is limited to readily available resources.  With all of these factors given, teachers can do much in a class which is always a learning process especially with diverse culture, needs and levels.  Classroom management is a success when everybody learns as expected and followed the rules as agreed on day one.  


Nathan Hall

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