Discipline Problems

Disciplinary Problems in the Classroom

Definition:

Cambridge dictionary defines discipline as “a training that makes people more willing to obey or more able to control themselves.”

A discipline problem is a behavior that interferes with the learning process.  It prevents the learners from learning.

Discipline aims to teach the students to have self-control. It teaches them to show respect to the educational authorities.

Discipline problems are one of the greatest concerns for educators. It is one of the most critical issues in education. Discipline problems make the teacher invest more time in management issues rather than delivering the curriculum objectives.

Types of Disciplinary Problems in the Classroom

-Students challenge the school rules

-Students show no respect to the teacher

-Defiance: Students refuse to listen to or follow the directions of the teacher

-Students’ use of verbal abuse

-Threatening

-Bullying: the practice of abuse to intimidate others

-Sexual harassment

-Students steal other students’ things and stuff

-Students fight with each other

-Students intentionally skip class

- Truancy: Absence from school

-Back talk

-Boycotting or interruption of the lesson

-lying

-Vandalism or destroying the properties of the school

-Drug abuse

-Assault or causing physical harm

-Insulting or scorning others

-Mocking

How To Deal With Discipline Problems:

Discipline problems can be very frustrating to a teacher. However, there are several techniques that the teacher should have in his/ her repertoire that can help the teacher cope with disciplinary problems. 

-Teachers are expected to set clear standards of behavior for students (Standards should be realistic.), along with consequences.

-Teachers should negotiate the rules with the students

-Teachers are highly recommended to keep the classroom activities attractive and interesting

-Teachers are expected to plan their lessons to cater for different learning styles

-It is highly recommended for the teachers to avoid shouting.

-A teacher is required to have knowledge about the students’ background.

-Teachers assign the students challenging tasks

-Teachers should be consistent and fair so the students trust them.

-Teacher are expected to respect the students as individuals.

-Teachers should praise the students’ performance to motivate them to work hard.

- Teachers should work on creating a safe learning environment and a positive classroom climate to minimize disruption.

-Teachers should set a good example for students to follow. They should watch out their moves in the class because children learn through observing others.

- Withitness: The teacher should activate all her channels and know what is going on in the class.

It is the ability to know what is happening in the class all the time. Withitness helps the teacher to effectively manage the class.

Links:
https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/EJ1079558.pdf
https://busyteachers.org/8995-top-10-tips-deal-with-indiscipline-in-classroom.html
https://ir.unimas.my/id/eprint/5656/
https://dictionary.cambridge.org/dictionary/english/discipline
https://education.gov.gy/web/index.php/teachers/tips-for-teaching/item/1534-what-are-the-causes-of-classroom-discipline-problems
https://globaljournals.org/GJHSS_Volume13/2-Management-of-Disciplinary-Problems.pdf
https://owlcation.com/academia/Classroom-Management-Strategies-With-It-Ness