Teaching Philosophy And Classroom Behaviour Management Plan

TEACHING PHILOSOPHY AND CLASSROOM BEHAVIOUR MANAGEMENT PLAN

Griffith University

Personal Philosophy of Teaching and Learning

A classroom is a very dynamic and spontaneous place. Every classroom is comprised of a diverse combination of individuals who all contribute to the unpredictable nature and uniqueness of the class. The reality that no two students are alike and no two classes are ever alike, contributes greatly to the difficulty of establishing a realistic and effective classroom management plan. It is important that teachers realize that a classroom is an unpredictable place and that it is much more reasonable to strive to manage their classroom as opposed to trying to control it. I see my role as a managing teacher as guiding my students through their learning as they explore and discover what works best for them, instead of dictating how they will do things. It is also important that teachers are aware of the great number of theories that exist in regards to classroom and more specifically, behaviour management. I believe that it is detrimental for a teacher to adopt one philosophy without ever considering the numerous other possibilities. In my opinion all of the theorists have a number of positive ideas that can be introduced into the classroom in order to create an optimal learning environment. In developing my philosophy on teaching and learning I have incorporated the philosophies of Jones, Rogers and Gootman.

Fredrick Jones developed the Classroom Management Training Program which includes three clusters: body language, incentive systems and providing efficient help. I am not in favor of using tangible rewards for the whole class. A number of children on behavior modification programs use some type of tick or sticker system in which there is an arrangement between teacher, parent and student. I do believe that children need to be encouraged and rewarded, but praise, gestures or free time are often times more satisfying than any toy or treat. It is my belief that children should be taught in an environment that makes them want to learn more. They should be excited about acquiring new skills and learning about things they are interested in. I am going to focus on being creative and providing my students with such an environment. I am most interested in the Jones model because it focuses on helping students support their own self control. The use of body language allows this method to be minimally intrusive. It forces the student to realize what they are doing and change their behavior without being directly instructed to do so.

Marilyn Gootman (1997) introduced the theory of Caring Teacher Discipline. Caring Teacher Discipline suggests that by setting limits, giving students responsibility, helping develop self-confidence in students and teaching children how to make good judgments and solve problems as well as correcting misbehaviour that children can be taught to do the right thing (Gootman, 1997). I am attracted to this theory because it focuses on the importance of communication between student and teacher and developing a feeling of self-worth within the students. It also offers an opportunity to teach children self-discipline. The students are guided and encouraged as they develop individual identities and gain the ability to decide for themselves what behaviour is acceptable and what is not. If children feel safe and confident in who they are, they will be less afraid of failure and more curious, resulting in an enhanced learning experience.

Bill RogersÐ'ÐŽÐ'¦ theory focuses on behaviour management and the development of rules, rights, responsibilities and routines in the classroom. RogersÐ'ÐŽÐ'¦ work is based on the idea that behaviour management requires as much planning as lessons and curriculum do. RogersÐ'ÐŽÐ'¦ suggests that discipline can be separated into three categories, preventative, corrective and supportive. When discipline is necessary Rogers suggests using increasing levels of decisive teacher action. Discipline should be as least intrusive as possible based on the situation and interventions should never be hostile or aggressive. Students should be given choices when it is at all possible and they should always be treated with respect. Rogers presents a number of very useful and reasonable suggestions for successful behaviour management.

By combining the ideas from each of the theories that best suit my classroom situation I hope to be able to create a learning environment that not only makes my students feel safe, but also inspires them to be creative and allows them to learn to their maximum potential.

In order to allow for optimal learning there are a number of other issues which must be addressed including gender issues, bullying and inclusive education. While growing up my older brother got bullied a lot. As a result of these experiences I have always had a serious opposition to any and all types of bullying. When I become a teacher I plan to establish a no tolerance policy for any and all types of hurtful behavior. I will discuss bullying with my class and through role play and group discussions make them aware of the issue. It also is extremely important for teachers to remember that boys and girls are different. They learn differently, they behave differently and as a result have distinct needs in a classroom. Unfortunately with so many female teachers at the primary level the education system is becoming feminized and boys are being left behind. As a female teacher at the primary level it will be absolutely essential that I do research into the area of boys in the classroom and create a learning environment that supports both boys and girls in all aspects of the learning process. The issue of inclusive education is very important. I have a great deal of experience working with children with special needs and am in full support of mainstreaming when it is beneficial for the child. It is my belief that children with special needs have a great deal to offer a regular classroom and they have a lot to teach other students. The multi-cultural nature of our society also adds a lot to the classroom. It is important that teachers are aware of the different backgrounds and cultures of their students in order to not only include them, but to adapt lessons and activities so that they are relevant to all students.

When I picture myself as a teacher, I see a professional who has the confidence and ability to establish a relationship with my students that allows them to feel safe and respected. I want to inspire and motivate my students while instilling in them a desire to learn, explore and be creative. My classroom will