Discipline and behavior

Ross Woods, 2022

Discipline and behavior is usually requires complex solution. The worst case scenario is a power struggle between teachers and students, which is more likely at high schools if a substantial proportion of students are resisting authority. This is much too difficult an issue for a short ebook, but here are several starting points:

  1. The principal sets the standard for the whole school. Having a good principal with good policies normally establishes a better school culture and makes discipline easier.
  2. Young people are normally happier if the school has clear boundaries that are applied clearly, consistently, and fairly. Although they are happier, they will probably complain, and will test them to see if application is clear and consistent. School students usually think it's not "cool" to say they like school no matter how much they like it.
  3. Discipline is easier when teachers set a good example. Hypocrital behavior undermines the behavior management regime.
  4. Separate disgruntled parties and let them cool off. In more difficult cases, remove the difficult child from the situation.
  5. Suitable penalties for infractions are helpful. Although not always allowable, schools need to expel the worst students, especially if they put others in physical danger. The aspect of psychological danger, caused by different kinds of bullying, is increasingly permissible as grounds for serious discipline.

Ultimately, however, it is your class and you are in control. Other students have rights too. You need to keep the option of expelling a continually disruptive student from the classroom. In fact, you are legally required to do so if it affects health and safety.

 

Managing difficult behavior: Adult classes

Adult classes seldom have behavior problems. The students have chosen to study and are generally highly motivated. Even so, students might have these problems:

Problem Suggested solutions
Student "shows off" by trying to sound better informed than other students Appreciate their strong points but don't accept misinformation.
Cut them off firmly but gently when it becomes unfair on others
Student dominates discussion to the exclusion of others Allow dominators to have a fair say
Ask quiet students questions, and draw out their ideas with more questions.
Cut off dominators firmly but gently when they become unfair to others.
Student is overly opinionated or defensive of their own viewpoints Ask other students for their opinions and the reasons for them.
Point out the strengths of other students' views.
You may also need to present balanced viewpoints yourself.
Student aggressively tries to strike an unreasonably favorable deal on assessment requirements Don't give in. Just explain the existing requirements. Don't let it get into an argument.

Captive audiences are very different, especially if students are angry at being forced to take the course. Their behavior problems will more likely be:

Is there a magic solution? One training program requires instructors to manage inappropriate behavior by using conflict resolution and negotiation skills: