Classroom management-Chapter 4

Assertive Discipline Overview

• Defining Assertive Discipline

  • Developed by Lee and Marlene Canter, a systematic approach to classroom management.

  • Focuses on clear expectations, positive and negative consequences, rules, and limits.

  • Aims for effective teaching without interruptions from misbehavior.

  • Most widely used behavior management program.

Chapter 4: Importance of Classroom Management

• Significance

  • 77% of teachers believe teaching effectiveness is hindered by disruptive students.

Session Outline

• Topics to be Covered

  • What is assertive discipline?

  • Basis and assumptions of assertive discipline.

  • Various teacher response styles including assertive, hostile, and non-assertive.

  • Assertive discipline plan and techniques.

  • Examples of rules and the use of 'I-messages'.

  • Pros and cons of the assertive discipline approach.

Theoretical Frameworks

• Canters’ Model Placement

  • Fits in several frameworks:

    • French and Raven’s Social Bases of Power: Coercive and reward powers.

    • Wolfgang and Glickman’s Schools of Thought: Interventionist strategy.

    • Skinner-Rogers Dichotomy: Falls on the Skinnerian side emphasizing control.

Basis and Assumptions of Assertive Discipline

• Core Ideas

  • Teachers should instruct without interruption from misbehavior.

  • Assumes student misbehavior is common and compliance with rules is necessary.

  • Reinforcement encourages adherence to rules, while punishment aims to deter rule-breaking.

Teacher Response Styles

• Impact on Student Self-Esteem and Achievement

  • Response styles vary:

    • Non-assertive/passive: vague expectations, lack of leadership.

    • Hostile: damages self-esteem, creates unfriendly environment.

    • Assertive: clear expectations and rules, prioritizes both teacher and student needs.

Assertive Discipline Plan

• Components

  • Clearly communicated rules addressing:

    • Motivation for proper behavior.

    • Punishment aimed to change negative behavior without being harmful.

How to Implement Assertive Discipline

• Steps for Effective Implementation

  • Define specific classroom rules.

  • Choose appropriate punishments and reinforcements.

  • Clearly inform students about the rules and consequences.

  • Begin the program implementation promptly.

Techniques in Assertive Discipline

• Correction Methods

  • Use disapproval tactics and reinforcement strategies.

  • Employ techniques such as eye contact, personal engagement, and repetition of commands until compliance.

Rules in Assertive Discipline

• Examples of Enforced Rules

  • Students must not disrupt teaching or peers’ learning.

  • Rules promoting respect and preparedness in class.

Positive Recognition

• Importance of Reinforcement

  • Positive recognition helps motivate students.

  • Emphasis on daily praise and rewards tailored to individual student values.

I-Messages: The Canter Approach

• Components of I-Messages

  • Structure: "I feel (emotion) when you (behavior). I would like (desired outcome)."

Pros of Assertive Discipline

• Benefits

  • Leads to a more productive classroom environment.

  • Provides structure that fosters learning.

  • Teaches students to expect positive behavior to be rewarded.

Cons of Assertive Discipline

• Limitations

  • Lacks comprehensive research on effectiveness.

  • Can imply excessive control, limiting classroom democracy.

  • Assumes all issues arise from student misbehavior, neglecting other factors.

Kohn’s Criticism of Reward Systems

• Critique of Rewards

  • Kohn argues that rewards diminish creativity, relationship quality, and self-discipline in students.

Evaluating the Model

• Personal Considerations

  • Educators should assess their compatibility with the assertive discipline model and its principles.