Implementing a new behaviour management strategy in your classroom
Action is important. Once you have read all the information offered in this resource, you need to implement it in your classroom. To assist you to remember the key strategies I have mentioned, you could display this poster in the staffroom.
Additionally, in this section I am going to address three steps for implementing a new behaviour management theory in your classroom. Ideally this would be started at the beginning of the school year, but it is possible to make changes at any time. Indeed, if your current strategies are not working for you, now is the time to address the issue!
Even if you feel your current strategies are working reasonably well, it is always helpful to take a fresh look at the research that is available and use the best on offer to inform your practice.
The first step when re-evaluating your classroom management style is to research which theories most closely align with your personal teaching philosophy. The theory section of this website contains an overview of the theories I personally have found helpful, but for a more detailed review of the key theories on behaviour management, I suggest you read Classroom Management (Lyons, Ford & Arthur-Kelly, 2011).
Once you have researched the key theories, you will need to determine which one best fits your personal beliefs. The following questions have been modified from Classroom Management (Lyons, Ford & Arthur-Kelly, 2011).
Once you have selected a theory which aligns with your principles and beliefs, and you feel can be implemented in accordance with the policies of your school, it is time to start planning.
Now that you have outlined your plans, it may help to review them with a colleague. A colleague who can support you as you attempt to transition your classroom management style is an invaluable resource (Rogers, 2006, p. xii). Ask a colleague who you feel is an experienced practitioner and can model effective classroom management for you. They can listen when you need to vent, help you reflect and plan and importantly, offer you advice based on their experience. In addition to discussing the issues of your class and how you will apply your selected theory, it is useful to ask the teacher if you can observe some of their classes. When observing their class, try to note the following:
Making changes to your classroom management style is not an easy task. Dealing with challenging students and hard classes can be demoralising. Don't let the stituation get on top of you: reach out for help.
"To survive the shock of classroom reality, novice teachers need collegial support from experienced teachers and peers."
(Huling-Austin, 1992)