1. August 18, 2016 Presentation for Graduate Teaching Assistants Mr. Evan Springer, Assistant Dean of Students TIPS FOR CLASSROOM MANAGEMENT: A STUDENT AFFAIRS PERSPECTIVE

2. Creating an inclusive and safe classroom environment helps promote student learning and growth. Disruptive behavior prohibits the faculty member form teaching and prevents other students from learning (Ajibade, 2013). What are some behaviors that might be observed in the classroom? These behaviors may be bothersome but do not usually rise to the level of classroom disruption. Introduction

3. Include a statement about cell phones in your course syllabus Address the cell phone use when the class first meets. Establish clear boundaries the first time that cell phone use occurs Address the entire class about cell phone use and its impact: -lower quality notes -retain less information -reduced test scores -distracting to others -less sleep =Lower GPA Cell Phone Use

4. The “know-it-all” can be dismissive of others’ thoughts and ideas. This type of student might try to dominate classroom discussion and can often leave other students feeling disgruntled and excluded. While you want to capitalize on the know-it-all’s strengths, you also want to set the tone for classroom discussion. At the beginning of the semester, set the ground rules for participation. Periodically during the semester, you may want to remind students of the rules for engagement in the class. The “know-it-all”

5. The negative student consistently has a negative attitude and finds ways to make any discussion go sour. To help prevent negativity from spreading throughout the class, work to get to the root of the problem. Check in with the student to see whether there may be an underlying reason for the negativity. Meet with the student in private to discuss the behavior and the impact it has on the class. Provide the student with available campus resources that may be of assistance. Negative Students

6. Lack of attendance and tardiness can be disruptive to the flow of the classroom. Set appropriate expectations at the beginning of the semester. If a student complains of being sick, can’t get assignments turned in on time, or expresses anything else that may suggest an ongoing medical condition, remind students of available resources including: Student Disability Resource Center Counseling and Psychological Services Case Management Services Attendance & Tardiness

7. Classroom disruption is defined as behavior a reasonable person would view as being likely to substantially or repeatedly interfere with normal academic functions of the classroom. What are some behaviors you would describe as disruptive? How is classroom disruption defined?

8. Persistently speaking without being recognized Interrupting other speakers Behavior that distracts the class from the subject matter or discussion In extreme cases, physical threats, harassing behavior or personal insults Refusal to comply with faculty direction What are some examples of behavior that might be defined as disruptive?

9. Consider a general word of caution, rather than warning or embarrassing a particular student. For example, address the entire class with, “we have too many side conversations going on in the moment. Let’s bring it back to the topic at hand.” You could also speak to the student after class. It’s possible the student is unaware of the impact of his/her behavior. If it is absolutely necessary to address the student in front of the entire class, do so briefly in a courteous manner, indicating that further discussion can take place after class. Utilize this as a last resort. How to respond when classroom disruption occurs?

10. 1.Have a private conversation with the student to discuss the disruptions you are observing, and possible remedies for the situation. 2.Follow up with a written summary to the student, re-stating your expectations and consequences for continued disruption. 3.Consult your supervisor for feedback on dealing with a disruptive student. 4.Consult with the Dean of Students for collaboration on a possible course of action. 5.Keep records of the difficulties, and your efforts to resolve them, including all written communication. These will be helpful in the case of formal actions. What actions might be taken?

11. If the disruption is persistent, you may direct the student to leave for the remainder of the class period. You should tell the student the reason for your action and provide an opportunity to discuss the matter as soon as reasonable. If there is a need to discuss the matter further, have the student schedule an appointment. You don’t want to get into a verbal confrontation in front of other students. Plus, this gives you both the chance to settle your thoughts. Persistent Disruptions

12. You should call campus police or 911 if you believe there is an immediate threat of violence or unlawful behavior. If the safety of you or someone in your class is at risk, you should immediately call the police or ask one of your students to do so. When should the police be called?

13. QUESTIONS?