Touchstone 8: Create an oasis of safety and respect in my classroom

Every year I begin each class by asking student what they think are appropriate rules and expectations for the classroom. Usually the students present negative framing such as not talking and not being off task. I always encourage students to revise their rules to focus on the positive behaviors that would help, instead of the negative behaviors to avoid. Goodwin and Hubbell (2013) recommend this strategy as well. When framing rules and expectations in the negative, it creates a sense that the default is bad behavior in the classroom. The expectation in my classroom is that negative behaviors will be the exception and not the norm. I have linked to a series of examples of positive framing below. It is the bedrock of any classroom where students feel that they are respected partners. In addition, to creating respect, it also provides students with an opportunity to create rules that will help them feel safe and many times rules that I had not thought of are suggested. Another powerful strategy is the oft cited No Nonsense Nurturer approach. While there are certain tenants of this model that I disagree with, I believe that positive narration is one of the best techniques for ensuring positive student behaviors. It also provides students with the opportunity to align their behavior with expectations without being targeted, which prevents many conflicts in the classroom. Earlier in my career I often placed the onus on students and did not realize the power of my language and expectations in fostering good behavior in the classroom. Now I understand the importance of inviting students to set expectations and to ensure that the language and actions of my management respect my students.

References:

Classroom Management: The No-Nonsense Nurturer. (n.d.). Retrieved November 3, 2018, from http://www.basicknowledge101.com/pdf/km/No Nonsense Nurturer 2 Pager.pdf

Positive Framing Examples and Non Examples. (n.d.). Retrieved November 3, 2018, from http://teachlikeachampion.com/wp-content/uploads/Positive_Framing_Examples_and_Non_Examples1.pdf