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Standard 6: Management
Creates and maintains a classroom environment which supports and encourages learning.
Management of a classroom involves not only the physical layout of the room itself, but also
the establishment of routines, rules and expectations. A well-run classroom is said to be able to run itself even in
the teacher's absence. Expectations are clearly spelled out early on and the students know those expectations. Routines
are consistent and the envrionment is such that students are able to work cooperatively and independently with minimal disruption.
Establishing a classroom climate of openness and mutual respect
In order for a classroom to be a positive learning environment, children must feel free to make mistakes without fear
of ridicule, otherwise they will be reluctant to participate. Early in my first placement, I made a point to work cooperatively
with my 2nd grade students to establish three basic rules that they could all follow to foster a safe learning environment.
The poster at left was the result of our efforts and buy-in was reasonably good given the age of the students.
Using a variety of strategies to increase student learning
Classroom management does indeed include the physical layout of the room as well. The
planning of centers such as a writing center, reading center, social studies center, a math center and a play center compartmentalize
learning in comfortable and predictable areas. Centers are best used to reinforce the learning from prepared lessons
but can also be effectively used as launch pads for independent explorations. In other words, students can construct
their own learning in these areas when free choice is offered.
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