The Effect of Good Classroom Management
A classroom that is managed well is a pleasing place for both teacher and students. For kids, the security of knowing how things are supposed to work and what is expected of them is a catalyst for appropriate behavior and real learning. For teachers, when good classroom management is in place, the day is all about listening to kids and teaching creatively -- not spending a majority of the time on discipline.
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Efficiency
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When a teacher and classroom are well organized, the day becomes streamlined. It is important that the teacher formulate a realistic plan for the day, one that doesn't just look good in the lesson-plan book but also works in practice. Teachers need to allow the appropriate amount of time for each lesson and activity; if a lesson is going to be presented for the first time, the teacher needs to do an oral "dry run." Kids should know where everything in the classroom is kept and which areas they may access.
Discipline
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Good classroom management includes setting clear and firm guidelines for student behavior. Students will maintain discipline when such expectations are clear. Rather than posting a huge list of do's and don'ts at the beginning of the year, it is sometimes effective to deal with problems as they come up, since it is impossible to anticipate every behavioral issue. So, for example, when a student decides to get up and walk around the room during a classroom lecture, the teacher should address the matter calmly, explain that the behavior is not allowed, and write the consequences for repeated infractions on the board. It is important that students are always sure of exactly what they are being punished for, and it is also important that students constantly be given positive reinforcement for appropriate behavior.
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Record Keeping
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Many teachers are required to keep an ongoing log of student work on a website so students and parents can check their progress. Others still use the traditional grade book. Either way, teachers must have an efficient method for keeping track of student progress and absences. This allows questions to be answered quickly and completely.
Parent Contact
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A well-managed classroom is open to parent visits, parent-teacher conferences, and, if available through the school, regular e-mail contact. By making it easier for parents to come in and help with special classroom projects, a teacher can expand the possibilities for hands-on activities. A well-managed classroom is one in which the teacher is at peace with the idea that parents may pop in for a visit.
Classroom Atmosphere
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A well-managed classroom is a cheerful place. Kids should have an opportunity to sometimes work noisily in groups; they should also know the appropriate down times when they can interact freely with their friends. A well-managed classroom is decorated with kid-friendly decorations that both recognizes students' interests and gives them information about schedules and classroom activities.
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