Trauma-Sensitive Learning Environments | Origin: EC105
This is a general discussion forum for the following learning topic:
Teaching Secondary Students Affected by Trauma --> Trauma-Sensitive Learning Environments
Post what you've learned about this topic and how you intend to apply it. Feel free to post questions and comments too.
Don't be quick to judge students who act out. Learn student's triggers.
I'm going to introduce more resilience-building strategies for my students and make taking care of me a priority instead of something I'll get around to eventually because I take care of everyone else's problems first and mine last. Which in turn only adds to burnout and frustration which students pick up on real quick.
Be patient, look for opportunities to learn more about trauma
Changing mind set is important.
Instead of:"what is wrong with you?'
Try: " Where is this behavior coming from?"
or "What happened to you?'
I've learned that is okay to take time for ourselves to decompress.
I feel more equipped to notice student behaviors as they relate to trauma.
Sarcasm is hostility disguised as humor. NEVER use with students!
Having a trauma sensitive learning environment is important for everyone, students, teachers, co-workers, admin, etc. I work hard to make my classroom as welcoming as I can. I am working on identifying triggers early and avoiding them with students and friends.
It can be daunting to disentangle trauma effects from the normal chaos of growing up, & in both cases, being a calm, positive example & showing what it means to be here caringly seems so important
After reading this, I think I need to be a little less relaxed in my scheduling.
I intend to be more aware in my everyday interactions with students on how trauma may be impacting their actions and reactions. It is important to me to keep a safe environment for all students.
Use resources, they have been made available to be utilized
Remember that behaviors can be a result of trauma, and to treat the students with compassion, instead of punitive reaction.
I think trauma informed classrooms need to be prepared to adapt at any point. As trauma varies, and changes with the zeitgeist, it is critical that teachers do not create an unspoken hierarchy for various trauma. I work very hard in my classroom to instill a sense of empathy within the community regarding others learning experience. We discuss problems of perspective and how to continuously maintain a safe space.
I liked the fact that as observers of behaviors in our students and incorporating a method of providing assistance to help them, there was also an emphasis placed on the the observer to take mental inventory of ourselves.
Be aware. Use positive reinforcement. Sarcasm is not the best way. Work with an acting out student. Don't be so quick to dismiss them.
I had never thought of sarcasm as "hostility disguised as humor" -- I tend to use sarcasm a lot & will rethink this approach moving forward.
i have learned that there is usually a reason for some students to be acting out and not be so quick to judge them.
It is important for teachers to be aware of any signs of trauma in their students.