Managing complex classroom
- 2. Classroom Management • Classroom management is the process of organizing and conducting the business of the classroom relatively free of behaviour problems as well as establishing and maintenance of the classroom environment so that educational goals can be accomplished. This approach brings order and control in the classroom. – K. D. Moore 2012
- 3. Characteristics of a Complexed Classroom • Researchers have identified several characteristics of classroom life that make it complex and demanding They found the following: • • Classrooms are multidimensional. The large numbers of events and tasks make classrooms complex places. • • Classroom events are simultaneous. Many things happen at once. • • Classroom events are immediate. Things occur rapidly. • • Classrooms are unpredictable. Events often take unexpected turns. • • Classrooms are public. Teachers must do their jobs in “fishbowls.” – (W. Doyle, 1986).
- 4. Characteristics of a Well-Managed Classroom • Student engagement • Clear expectation • Effective time management • Positive work environment • Firm discipline
- 5. Sources of Complexity in the Classroom Teachers may have to face a lot of distractions in the classroom daily. Good teacher however, always remain committed to their profession and try solving these problems. • Uninterested and unmotivated students • Disrespectful behaviour of students • Lack of parental involvement • Misuse of technology • Non fulfilment of students basic needs • Improper lesson planning
- 6. Overcrowded Classrooms A combination of an increasing population and a decrease in funding has caused class sizes to soar. In an ideal world, class sizes would be capped at 15-20 students. Unfortunately, many classrooms now regularly exceed thirty students.
- 7. Problems/Effects of Overcrowded Classrooms • There is not enough of the teacher to go around • Increases classroom discipline issues • Struggling students fall further behind • Increase in noise level • Change in teachers’ behaviour • Lack of personal connections
- 8. Solutions • Plan exceptionally well • Create energetic and engaging lessons • Tutoring struggling students after class • Assign seats and rotate when necessary • Understand that the dynamics will be different • Provide a lot of structure
- 9. Coping with Unexpected Events Life is full of surprises and events that sometimes, shatter one’s daily routine. Some are pleasant and some are unpleasant. Most people like to be in control of their lives, and therefore, are more at ease living the same kind life everyday, following the same routine.
- 10. How do you cope with unexpected or surprising events • Do you become stressed? • Do you become panic? • Do you get frustrated? • Do you become angry?
- 11. Coping Strategies • Pre-emptive strikes • Infallibility • Be cool, calm and consistent • Honesty • Never make it personal • Thou shalt not assume • Matching expectations • Have a sense of humour • Call for backup • Addendum