Introduction
Classroom management is one of the most perplexing concepts facing teachers today. The areas of concern range from "How can I get students to be quiet when I speak?" to "How do I encourage students to be self disciplined?" The core of the problem is that establishing and maintaining an effectively organized and managed room must be considered as an holistic approach.
How often have we heard teachers express "If I get my students to follow the rules and procedures, and decorate and arrange my classroom, I'll be all set." The research tells us that this teacher will not be set. In an effectively organized and managed classroom, this is not enough. Effectively managed classrooms include several other tangibles - all of which are achievable.
The variety of tangibles that are incorporated in a holistic manner include, but are not limited to the following:
Rules and procedures
Building self-esteem
Effective room arrangements
Clearly stated expectations
Understanding cultural backgrounds and learning styles of all students
Effective communication techniques
Effective instructional strategies
When we understand the complexities of classroom management, we can then begin to see how each teacher's unique techniques applied to creating a positive classroom environment and their individual teaching style can produce the same desired result - quality instructional time.
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