How to Handle Discipline Problems With Effective Classroom Management

Source : Erin Schreiner , ehow.com

Dealing with discipline often proves a difficult task for teachers. One of the most effective ways to handle chronic discipline problems is through effective classroom management. By creating a well-structured plan of rules and consequences, you can make it more clear to students how they are expected to behave within the classroom. As you set about dealing with discipline problems that occur within your classroom, do so systematically with classroom management.

Instructions

1. Set clear rules. Compose a list of three to seven rules, each written in concise and clear language. By writing a reasonably sized list of rules that your students can understand you make your behavioral expectations clear to your students.
2. Avoid engaging in confrontation in front of an audience. Some students will react negatively if confronted in front of peers. Instead of engaging in an argument in front of a class, ask the offending student to step into the hallway and discuss the issue one-on-one.
3. Allow for cool-down time. When children misbehave, tempers may flare. Instead of tending to the child who is presenting a discipline problem when you are still seething, allow some time to pass so you can cool down. Not only does this practice give you some chill-out time, it allows the student to calm as well.
4. Keep your voice low. Avoid yelling at all costs. Some students delight in getting a rise out of teachers. Keep your voice low and your volume level. As students see that they can't get under your skin, they may be more likely to remain in line.
5. Discuss the issue with the student, reaching a consensus. Instead of proclaiming that the student was wrong and demanding he change his ways, explain why the behavior presented a problem. If you can get the student to see that his behavior is a real problem in the classroom, you may be more successful in encouraging him to change
6. Request a commitment from the student. Before you move on from the issue, ask the student to commit to change, requesting that he promise to try harder, to stop doing a certain thing or to focus more effectively on the task at hand. By seeking this commitment, you can potentially stop the discipline-problem cycle.