Positive Student Teacher Interactions

In addition to maintaining a comfortable classroom, I implement a student-centered approach by enhancing the environment with continual positive interactions with students. In my classroom, students respect the fact that once they enter the classroom, they may not yell or treat each other or me with disrespect. I model a friendly tone and the students, for the most part, mirror this tone. When something goes wrong, I laugh at my own mistakes or about things which are out of my control. When something goes well, praise is abundant.

Teacher feedback is significant when it comes to implementing ground rules for academic discussion. For this reason, I often congratulate my students for their insightful remarks; this goes a long way towards inciting positive classroom discussions and fosters creative thinking. Students know they can freely express their ideas and I reinforce the notion that there are many perspectives which can be explored regarding literature. Freedom of expression is valued.

Further, students’ suggestions are considered when I make administrative decisions. Students are given choices about assignments, test dates, and essay topics whenever possible. I like to think that students not only feel comfortable in my class, but they also feel respected and valued as individual members of a community learning environment.

Once a positive tone has been established, it is the teacher's responsibility to maintain this throughout the school year. While this can be challenging, the rewards are manifold.