M4 U6 Activity 2: Putting it all together
Project Description
Overview Managing the learning environment can be very difficult for those who have never experienced the classroom. Knowing the whats and whys behind student behavior can also be a challenge. Putting all of your knowledge together, reflect on how you will build a positive classroom climate and culture. Using all of the tools, techniques and talents from this module, write about how videos, collaboration with your partners and other resources have helped you to craft your ideal climate and culture for your classroom. Performance outcomes
Candidates reflect on how they would manage their learning environment based on the previous observations and co-planning exercises.
What will you do?
Write a reflection on how you would build a positive classroom climate. Specifically, think and write about:
Norms & procedures
Transitions
Setting High expectations
Using Technology Tools
Communicating with parents
Impact of video observations
As you review the work you have completed in the program so far, remember to update the e-Portfolio you started at the beginning of the program. You will be submitting the final e-Portfolio towards the end of the program.
Report requirements
Written reflection on managing the learning environment
Updated e-Portfolio
(The above information was cited from the TEACH-NOW Teacher Preparation Certificate Program)
My reflection
Norms & procedures
Norms and procedures are necessary to not only avoid negative behaviors but also to encourage and solidify positive ones. I have learned that praising positive behaviors is more helpful than disciplining negative ones, but for anxious kids who don’t want any extra attention from peers, private or non-verbal praise is often better. (**fact-based praise as opposed to general praise) Moreover, I believe that norms should be built around growing an atmosphere where students are not afraid to fail, nor ask questions, as well as always being prepared and ready for class. In this way, having norms as part of my class procedures with the WBT method helps to build a permanent positive classroom environment where all students feel comfortable and confident to learn.
Transitions
Having good procedures is necessary to have effective transitions. I have learned that transitions are essential for developing a strong, welcoming, and safe classroom environment, and should be used right from the beginning of a class. Especially for the students who struggle with trauma, the benefit of having strong procedures can also provide them a sense of security as they are all familiar with it, and make them a clear part of the class structure. I can feel that the relationship between students and I have gotten closer after I added the morning circle time with emotion check-in in my "Entering the classroom" transition.
Setting High expectations
I think when teachers show that they care about their student's progress, students themselves are much more likely to respond to feedback. As well as extrinsic motivation, inner motivation is also very important. Developing a growth mindset in students is one of the most important things a teacher can do. By encouraging students to believe in their ability and learn to deal with failure, they will eventually be able to have control over their own learning. Especially for those children who are struggling with trauma (or challenging behavior), I have learned that they just lack the skills to behave well, so that I know I should offer my help and support instead of judgment. And then try to find their strength, maintaining my high expectations of them. For example, I know you can reach this goal. I've seen you do (Strengths), so what do you think the next steps in your learning might be?
Using Technology Tools
Although I believe technology has an important role to play, it shouldn't be forced onto teachers or students, and should only be used when it has a clear purpose. I've been put in situations where I was asked to use technology when its use only helped to slow down progress because it was being forced on teachers for some reason other than for making an impact on learning. Therefore, I think technology should be used when it has a clear benefit. When used well, it has the power to not only make learning more fun and efficient but can also transform and allow teachers to do things that are not normally possible.
My Work
Comments