There are various strategies which teachers can employ to organize and manage their classroom effectively during this new school year. This article seeks to highlight a few of these strategies.
1. Classroom organization
Classroom organization influences students’ motivation to learn. It is important thatteachers organize their classrooms to promote learning and interaction and to ensure that studentsfeel comfortable and relaxed.
Organizing the classroom foreffective teaching and learning
The physical arrangement of the classroom communicates the teacher’s approach to teaching and learning and therefore should not be overlooked when designing the classroom rules and procedures.
The relationship between class activities and organization
The term synomorphy refers to the relationship between activities planned to take place in a certain space and the arrangement of objects in that space. In other words, how the classroom is arranged will impact how effective certain activities can be carried out. For example, if a teacher is lecturing at the front, rows of chairs facing the front are more effective. On the other hand, if students are working together on projects, chairs around a circular table will work better managing instruction and learning. It is often the “first impression” of the class, as students enter, that will give clues as to the kind of activity(s) to be expected. This in itself would help to prevent chaotic situations upon entering.
What are some tips in designing a classroom layout?
• A teacher should be able to go to any student with four steps from where they spend most of their time.
• The arrangement should provide for easy access and storage of materials.
• Furniture and object placement should communicate a clear traffic pattern for student movement.
• The arrangement should give the teacher flexibility in methods of teaching.
What else should be considered to enhance learning?
1) Classroom behaviour
Almost all classroom behaviour is learned. Therefore, students must clearly understand what is expected of them. However, the responsibility lies with each teacher to explain how and why he/she wants studentsto work in a particular way and to givepositive feedback when they respond positively.
2) The development of procedures and routines
• Use few classroom rules. These should be of a minimum number and focus on expectations of how children should act toward one another, maintain a safe environment and participate in learning.
• Establish routines to maintain a relaxed and warm environment to enhance learning. It is more effective and efficient to use routines in the classroom on a daily basis.
3) Personalizing the learning for students
Students develop as different rates. As a result, in every classroom there will be a range of student abilities and aptitudes. It is vital to know the students’ needs, their learning styles, personality, motivation, attitude and abilities to be able to help them.Modifying the teaching methods would help to maintain a high level of interest – and using techniques that best serve the learning needs of students, no matter what the subject is, would enable success in learning.
4) Learning through discovery
There are many things that students can learn independently through discovery, and/or in a more direct way. Children should be allowed to learn on their own, as well as from others.
5) Knowledge of students background and culture
Students learn best if their particular culture and background are acknowledged by the teacher, and the methodologies and procedures adapted to their needs.
Conclusion
In addition to the preceding, it is important to note that trusting, friendly relationships between teachers and students promote a positive climate where every student feels respected, included and valued. This definitelyis a good starting point for successful teaching and learning.
