The biggest challenge for a new teacher is by far, establishing his/her authority. This is a complex, self-encompassing, very difficult job. It is hard to see beyond the discipline problems, rowdy kids, unpredictable lessons all in an attempt to develop your own personality or, individual approach of teaching in the classroom.
Research has it: students will learn better when there is a non-threatening, friendly atmosphere. Kids will always try to test us to see how we relate to certain problems, but they want to learn and they do need and want that framework or structure of learning.
So how can one be friendly yet strict? Don't the two contradict?
Kids thrive with the individual approach. They need the personal touch.
This is where getting to know your students comes in. It's not only about befriending them. What they do need is somebody to listen, care, understand them. Students come with a variety of talents and interests. At the same time, there are those students who have little or no self-esteem. They can be very disruptive and rebellious in the classroom, but inside they are pained and hurt.
A teacher's job in the beginning is finding the right "pair of shoes" that will serve his/her authority in the classroom. It is important to be consistent with maintaining classroom rules and not to compromise. It may take a new teacher a few months before she or he feels comfortable using the individual approach. But, by establishing an individual approach, a teacher can make a difference with ALL students and especially those hard-to-handle students and those with special needs.
Here are a few general ways to develop an individual approach. The list is by no means exhaustive.
What ticks your students?
The best place to start is to observing them during recess. Pick one student. How does s/he interact? What does she or he like to do?
Birthday Charts
Students love it when you remember their birthdays. This makes them feel special. I have a calendar chart where I collect the names for each class for this purpose. On their birthdays, I give them a card with a little gift.
Questionnaires
At the beginning of each school year, I distribute a variety of questionnaires to each class ranging from basic general questions (personal information) to questions that require more elaboration such as:
- What help do you want from me as your teacher?
- What is important for me to know about you?
- What do you do in your free time?
- What do you enjoy about learning "subject Y'? What do you dislike about "subject Y'?
The more specific the questions are, the more individual responses you are likely to receive. And this will give you a more authentic picture of the student. The more authentic picture a teacher has, the better the chances are to establish a better relationship with the student.
Distribute a page on Learning Styles.
Different kids have different learning styles. It might be in your best interest to know how students learn and what style fits them the best. Again, this information will serve you in helping you plan your lessons. Once you have a general picture, you can begin to plan in light of this new information.
Collecting Feedback.
Ask your students what makes a good lesson, student, and/or teacher. Prepare their answers on a feedback form and give it to them to fill out. They will feel proud knowing that it was THEIR contribution and their accomplishment. You are sending out a message of care. The students feel good too about themselves. Everybody wins!
Final Words
School counselors and psychologists are valuable in the wealth of information and tips they can provide about individual students. It is important however to find your own individual approach and what works for you, as you slowly learn the importance and how to's on how to make a difference in each child's life.
Further Reading
Strategies: Classroom Management
