Prompt #2: In a profession as challenging as teaching, honest self-reflection is key. That means that we must regularly examine what has worked and what hasn't in the classroom…” This year, what has worked and what hasn’t in your classroom. What will you do differently?
I think the main thing that did not work for me this year, especially in my block class, was just being too inconsistent with classroom management. I am too nice at heart honestly. I don’t really want to be a strict disciplinarian. I would rather let stuff slide and hope it correct itself than make an example of the behavior right then and there. In retrospect, this is the main thing I need to focus on in the future. In my opinion, you must first establish a respectful environment that is conducive to learning before you can teach anything. I am planning on implementing a no nonsense three strike policy. Any infraction results in a strike. Two strikes and you my get your seat moved if it is possible. Three strikes and you are out of class. Also, I plan on keeping records of these infractions, so that I have ammunition if in the future I need to justify writing a referral or whatever.
What has worked for me a bit has been some of the engagement strategies I have tried. I did a stations exercise that I thought went very well, at least in my integrated classes. The students took to the group activities and seemed to work well together. Many of them were engaged in good conversations and were helping each other out, which was nice to see. I think in the future, I really want to plan out more of these types of activities. Hopefully, in the coming years, I might actually get more time to do so J
Students (and really people in general) will treat you the way you allow them to treat you. The more consistent you are in your expectations the easier your life will be. They will get with the program and you will have a lot more fun with your days.
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