The steps to take to keep all students engaged in learning was very informative.
Keeping track of a disruptive student is key when it comes time to reprimand them. Proof is always needed. I recommend a sit down with the student. Where the issue is written up and they have to sign it after discussing what happened, how to better handle the situation, and possible outcomes if nothing changes.
I do a pretty good job of moving around the classroom and engaging with students, but I do tend to focus on specific students like the loud ones, disruptive ones, and the ones who are doing really well in the class. I struggle to get to the quiet students as often. Improving that might help me to identify some of those students that are falling behind or inattentive before they start failing the class. Check-ins with those students would help me give them the support they need.
Cheating has been a challenge, especially when students find the content difficult or come unprepared. I've used online monitoring tools and site blockers to reduce this. Maintaining strong rapport, staying flexible, and using proactive classroom management—like keeping students engaged with activities—has helped a lot.
It is good that our tests are computer based and we can track it. But some students are getting crafty and it can be hard to catch. I stand at the rear of the class so I can see computer screens which seems to help curb some of it.
Comment on Brittany Behel's post: I agree with your response.
The cheating happens and that is honestly my biggest issue. I have a great rapport with my students but the content is harder than they are used to and often they are unprepared. I have used online monitoring services and blocking sites to help lower some of my repeat offenders.
It's best to listen and keep your ego in check. Keeping proactive classroom management helps student engagement by keeping them busy with activities/projects.
I must be proactive, document interactions with students and keep an open line of communication always.
I learned simply to listen first rather than get defensive when a confrontation with an angry student occurs.
Monitoring the behavior of the student's and recognizing and potential problems that may arise and prevent them ahead of time.
I think it best to have a set of classroom norms and go through them every session at the beginning. This can be a quick or drawn-out review, as needed. They can also be posted on the wall and direct students to review them after they've signed in or updated their tracking sheets while the wait for others to catch up. You should get agreement from them that they are willing to follow the norms. For instance, if norm #2 is no cross-talk, and you have a student who is, you can simply ask them, "are you following norm #2?
Make sure to follow your school's policy for cheating students, document everything and always try to help the student by explaining policies listening to their side and making good decisions.
Have an environment not conducive to cheating.
I have learned that following your schools policies and documentation of all conversations are very important. When all else has failed meet with your administrator regarding steps for removal of the student from the class.
Have a system to deal with class distractors. Build a rapport and know the difference from a reluctant learner and someone who is distrupting class.
I learned that using Proactive classroom management help sets clear expectations, and keeping the students active with hands-on learning.
This course taught me that as a cosmetology instructor I need to set clear expectations and be consistent to maintain proper control of the classroom. Building relationships is key to getting to know them and their learning styles.
Managing student behavior is an important part of teaching and can hinder both teacher and student learning if not dealt with properly. I enjoyed the variety of ways to deal with students who may be a problem.
Again, it seems like this content is targeted for teachers instructing adults. Most of this is Classroom Management 101. I don't agree with the suggestion to let angry students vent. They're taking time away from the class and instruction. Other students may decide to start venting in order to waste class time and avoid work.
As far as cheating goes, make multiple versions of the same test. Only give physical tests - do not use digital ones. Problem solved.
