How to Apply Discipline With Dignity in the Classroom

Educating children involves more than simply instilling them with academic knowledge. This means that you will have to play the role of classroom disciplinarian. Learn how to reward progress, while addressing behavioral issues. Handing out balanced corrective measures can encourage students to take responsibility for their actions.

Instructions

1. Set a constructive example for your students. While tactics such as yelling or handing out harsh punishments may produce short-term results, these actions introduce negativity into your classroom. These behaviors also encourage students to mimic you and to disregard your desires for cooperation.

2. Establish firm disciplinary guidelines. Let students know that fairness and your commitment to enriching their lives won't allow you to overlook offenses. Explain that your classroom is a place for inspired learning and social progress.

3. Read over the classroom rules along with your students to ensure understanding and increase the likelihood of compliance. Instructing older children to sign behavioral contracts reinforces their roles in remaining constructive.

4. Refrain from holding grudges or labeling students as troublemakers. Understand that students aren't carbon copies of each other. Taking the time to relate to each student gives you insight into motivations and reasoning. Start each day with the realization that you have the ability to make a positive impact on both individual and classroom progress.

5. Monitor student activity to prevent and eliminate disciplinary problems. Staying proactive can help you make beneficial adjustments to facilitate growth. Examples include separating quarreling students prior to physical altercations, or giving a strong-willed student leadership responsibilities.

6. Provide incentives for positive behavior. Encourage your students to take an active role in their educational and social development. Building a cohesive environment makes it more likely that students will correct each other. Suitable incentives include being rewarded with special privileges or having the opportunity to opt out of certain homework assignments.

Tips & Warnings

• Forming constructive bonds with the parents of your students can make you a more effective authoritarian.

• Take notes from successful peers as they can provide you with invaluable knowledge.

References

• Honor Level: Techniques that Backfire
• Honor Level: 11 Techniques for Better Classroom Discipline