Setting clear expectations and rules from the beginning of the school year is crucial for managing classroom behaviour. Teachers should communicate these expectations to students and ensure they understand the consequences of both positive and negative behaviours. By establishing a structured and consistent framework, students will have a clear understanding of behavioural boundaries and the expected code of conduct.
Types of Challenging Behaviour
First, it is important to understand different types of behaviour. Disruptive behaviour is one of the most common and challenging types of students teachers face in the classroom. It includes behaviours such as talking out of turn, calling out, interrupting the teacher, and arguing with other students. Disruptive behaviour is often associated with a lack of discipline and can be frustrating for both teachers and students.
Withdrawn Behaviour
Students who exhibit withdrawn behaviour can be particularly challenging for teachers. They may be difficult to engage and resistant to participating in classroom activities. Withdrawn behaviour can manifest as a refusal to speak or interact with others, avoiding eye contact, or appearing disinterested in learning.
Inappropriate Behaviour
Inappropriate behaviour can disrupt the learning environment and pose challenges for teachers. It may involve using inappropriate language, making gestures or comments that are not acceptable, or behaving in a way that goes against the school’s behavioural expectations.
Violent Behaviour
Violent behaviour represents the most extreme form of challenging behaviour. It involves actions that cause physical harm to others or damage to property. Examples include hitting, kicking, spitting on other students, throwing objects, or damaging school property.
Causes of Challenging Behaviour
The causes of challenging behaviour are often complex and interconnected. Identifying these causes can help develop appropriate strategies to address them effectively. Here are some common factors that contribute to challenging behaviour:
Classroom Organisation is Key
The classroom environment, including layout, seating arrangements, and the presentation of materials, can significantly impact a child’s behaviour. For instance, if a child prefers to work alone but is placed in a group that they do not get along with, it may lead to frustration and anger, resulting in challenging behaviour.
Cultural differences and language barriers can contribute to challenging behaviour. Students from diverse backgrounds may struggle to adapt to new cultural norms, leading to misunderstandings and social isolation. Language barriers can also hinder effective communication with peers and teachers, leading to disengagement and confusion.
Bullying, peer pressure, social anxiety, and difficulties in forming relationships with peers can trigger challenging behaviour in the classroom. Students who feel isolated or targeted by others may struggle to concentrate and behave appropriately.
Providing Engaging and Varied Activities
Offering a range of engaging and varied activities keeps students interested and reduces the likelihood of disruptive behaviours. Tailor tasks to match students’ interests and incorporate diverse cultural aspects to make learning meaningful and enjoyable.
According to Edutopia, in classrooms where teachers used a series of techniques centred around establishing, maintaining, and restoring relationships, academic engagement increased by 33 percent and disruptive behaviour decreased by 75 percent—making the time students spent in the classroom more worthwhile and productive.
By creating a positive classroom culture, establishing clear rules and expectations, providing engaging activities, and employing effective reactive strategies, teachers can promote positive behaviour and support the overall development of their students. Additionally, seeking support and collaboration when needed can further enhance the effectiveness of behaviour management efforts. With a comprehensive approach to addressing challenging behaviour, educators can create an inclusive and supportive learning environment for all children.
