The upcoming election, along with other world and local events, and the general stress that comes during mid-semester, could have an impact on our classroom environments. A recent CTL workshop provided strategies for how to maintain effective learning environments, both this fall and in the future.
Should you have a classroom disruption challenge this semester there are a variety of ways you can address it, including
- Take a few minutes to reset the classroom expectations at your next class.
- If the behavior persists, meet with the student(s) either before or after class. Describe the situation and how it affects the learning environment. Ask the student(s) for their perspective. Often, behaviors are a way for students to communicate when they do not have the words to express themselves appropriately.
- For smaller classes with movable furniture, ask a few students to help you rearrange the classroom configuration the next time the class meets. A new space can be a visual refresh for all and help people physically reset.
The best way to address classroom disruptions is to plan for it in advance. The Guidance on Maintaining Effective Learning Environments resource includes helpful strategies for planning for, and responding to, classroom disruptions, including
- Be clear about your course policies in your syllabus – both around behavior and expectations for attendance and late work.
- Take a few minutes to discuss classroom expectations in your first or second class session. This can be done by sharing your expectations with students, and also getting their input on what makes an effective learning experience.
- Share with your students Policy 3240, and its purpose. You could then have a discussion about what classroom disruption might look like, and how it can be prevented/addressed.
- Include engaging activities in your class sessions. People learn best when they can think, talk, and try out the content – and when students are engaged in learning, there is less space for whole-class disruption.
- Build a welcoming classroom environment and strong relationships with your students. Ways to do this include posting fun questions or memes at the start of class or chatting with students before/after class about their interests.
- Normalize the stress or hectic part of the semester. Remind students to reach out to their circle of friends who they can study or have fun with.
In addition to these approaches, make sure you also take time to engage in your hobbies and interests. Unplugging from work is a great way to recharge and finish the semester with less stress. You can also reach out to the CTL to schedule a classroom observation. This service provides you with another perspective on classroom dynamics, and can assist you in implementing strategies to enhance the learning environment in your class.
References
“Guidance on Maintaining Effective Learning Environments” by Christina Nava, Teresa Focarile, Kate Law and Lauren Oe, Center for Teaching and Learning is licensed under CC BY-NC 4.0 / A derivative from the original work