Starting directly in the context of this month’s theme of the SHAECH magazine, I see behaviour management as a cornerstone of effective teaching. When we talk about behaviour management in schools, it’s imperative to understand its context. It refers to the strategies and techniques used by teachers/educators to promote positive behaviour within the classroom. An effective management of behaviour in the classrooms, or overall in the educational institutes, circumscribes not only the correction of undesirable behaviour, but also cultivates a disciplined learning environment to encourage students to grow.
However, behaviour management is equally relevant at home where parents’ role is imperative to inculcate positive behaviour in their child. In other words, behaviour management is not exclusively a domain of schools and teachers, it also belongs to homes and parents. It is pertinent to mention that it is not about addressing misbehaviour. In fact, it’s also about nurturing students’ social and emotional development. By setting clear expectations and promoting positive interactions, teachers contribute to the holistic growth of their students. This fosters an environment where students feel safe, respected, and motivated to engage in the learning process. Notably, teachers’ wellbeing is also part of an effective behaviour management. It reduces stress levels for teachers, which helps them to focus on delivering quality lessons.
Let me be also very clear that a wide range of behavioural problems in schools are caused due to improper activities of students. Students’ behavioural problems amount to gross misbehaviour, making it difficult for teachers and peers to collaborate effectively. Precisely, misbehaviour occurs when a student acts in a manner contradictory to the norms and regulations of the school. It involves making unnecessary noise in class, disobeying instructions, disrespecting fellow students and teachers, violating school regulations, or arguing with other people. It impacts the child’s learning and the classroom environment and is an indication of the child having emotional, social, or intellectual problems.
Here parents have a definitive role in shaping the behaviour of their children. It’s critical to establish a supportive home environment. Set up routines and boundaries that are clear so that their child feels safe. They have to help their child feel comfortable sharing their worries and difficulties, and promote open conversation. It’s worth mentioning that open and effective communication is the backbone of successful behaviour management.
To be precise, the stakeholders in managing the child’s behaviour need to focus on solutions, not punishment. It’s imperative for them that while addressing misbehaviour of the child, they need to avoid harsh punishments. Rather, they should concentrate on comprehending the cause of the conduct and collaborate to identify remedies. This can provide the child with tools to improve their self-expression, teaching them coping mechanisms, or assisting them in solving problems.
Here, it’s important for parents to partner with teachers and school staff to make it easier to control their child’s misbehaviour. Regular communication with teachers would ensure that the school and the parents are working together to support the child. Teachers can provide insightful information about the child’s classroom behaviour.
In conclusion, behaviour management in a collaborative manner where teachers and the parents are the partners, is one of the key cornerstones of effective teaching. By understanding its definition, recognising its significance, and implementing practical strategies, a positive and thriving learning environment can be created where all its benefits are percolating down to the students. As education continues to evolve, our approaches to behaviour management must also develop gradually, ensuring that every student has the opportunity to reach their full potential.
– Tariq Baktoo