Building Classroom Norms
Building Classroom Norms
The process of formulating classroom norms is not solely about but also the setting of mutual standards and the codification of basic interaction rules among students as well as between students and teachers. These norms are necessary for providing a safe and productive learning space. In a classroom where every student feels respected, valued, and engaged in their learning, these students are the proponents of the idea.
What are classroom norms and why are they important?
Classroom norms can be defined as common behavioral patterns mostly agreed upon by both students and teachers and which serve as the rules governing the interactions among students and the teacher. Classroom norms are very crucial to the classroom environment because they promote a feeling of friendship, increase the involvement of students, and create a respectful setting where learning can take place easily. For instance, one of the norms could be to raise hands before speaking which implies that all the voices are to be heard during conversation.
How can teachers effectively establish classroom norms?
Involving students in the creation of classroom norms helps teachers to establish effectively since it promotes ownership and commitment.Such activities can be carried out in the course of discussions, brainstorming sessions, or one through the creation of a classroom charter together. For example, a teacher could request the students to identify which behaviors they feel are crucial for learning and later come to a group agreement about the five main norms which should be followed.
What strategies can be used to reinforce classroom norms throughout the year?
One of the main ways to strengthen classroom norms is through constant reminders, rewards for proper behavior and letting students understand the behavior expected of them. Teachers can suggest to their students activities that deal with the norms, such as role-playing scenarios or recognizing students who exemplify these behaviors. Take, for instance, a teacher who could focus on a particular norm for the week and give small prizes to the students who are able to effectively exhibit that particular norm.
How can classroom norms be adjusted if they are not working?
Reiteration and rewriting of classroom norms with students' participation are crucial, especially when the norms are not functioning properly. This can mean collecting feedback through the use of surveys or the conduction of open-ended discussions to find out which norms are considered effective or ineffective. By way of illustration, if a rule about collaborating in groups creates confusion, the teacher could lead a session to clear it out and change the rule into a more suitable one for the students.