Teaching expectations in the classroom involves explicitly communicating and demonstrating the specific behaviors and attitudes that students are expected to display in various situations. This includes both academic and social expectations, such as how to participate in class discussions, how to work collaboratively with peers, and how to manage time effectively. Clear expectations are typically communicated through direct instruction, modeling, and reinforcement to ensure that students understand what is required of them and how to meet those expectations.
Teaching expectations in the classroom is essential for creating a positive and productive learning environment where students can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. By establishing clear guidelines for behavior and fostering a culture of respect, responsibility, and accountability, educators set the stage for success for all students.
Clear expectations help create a positive and supportive learning environment where students feel safe, respected, and valued. When students know what is expected of them, they are more likely to engage in positive behaviors that contribute to a conducive learning atmosphere.
Teaching expectations ensures that everyone in the classroom understands the rules and guidelines for behavior. Consistency and predictability in behavior expectations help students feel secure and understand the boundaries within which they can interact and learn.
By explicitly teaching expectations, educators empower students to take responsibility for their actions. When students understand the expectations, they are better equipped to make informed choices and take ownership of their behavior, fostering a sense of accountability for their actions.
Clear expectations contribute to effective classroom management by reducing disruptive behaviors and minimizing conflicts. When students know how to behave appropriately in different situations, teachers can spend less time addressing behavioral issues and more time focusing on instruction and learning activities.
Teaching expectations provides opportunities for students to develop important social and emotional skills, such as self-regulation, empathy, and conflict resolution. By practicing expected behaviors, students learn to navigate social interactions, communicate effectively, and work collaboratively with their peers.
A well-managed classroom with clear expectations can have a positive impact on academic achievement. When students feel safe, supported, and engaged in their learning environment, they are more likely to participate actively in classroom activities, ask questions, and take academic risks, ultimately leading to improved learning outcomes.
The STOIC Framework by Randy Sprick is an approach that focuses on teaching behavioral expectations in a clear and consistent manner. It is designed to help educators create a positive and productive learning environment by explicitly teaching students the behaviors they are expected to display in various settings. Let's explore the STOIC Framework and how it can be implemented in the classroom to teach expectations effectively.
Set Clear and Positive Expectations:
The first step in the Stoic Framework is to set clear and positive expectations for behavior. This involves defining the specific behaviors that are desired in various situations, such as during class discussions, group work, or transitions between activities. These expectations should be stated in a positive and straightforward manner to ensure students understand what is expected of them.
For example, instead of saying, "Don't interrupt others during class discussions," the positive expectation could be, "Raise your hand and wait for your turn to speak during class discussions."
Teach the Expectations Explicitly
Once the expectations are established, the next step is to teach them explicitly to the students. This can be done through direct instruction, modeling, and role-playing. Educators should clearly explain each expectation, demonstrate how it looks in action, and provide opportunities for students to practice the behaviors themselves.
Observe and Acknowledge Positive Behaviors
As students begin to display the desired behaviors, it is crucial to acknowledge and reinforce their efforts. Positive reinforcement can be in the form of verbal praise, written notes of encouragement, or even small rewards for consistent adherence to expectations. By recognizing and praising positive behaviors, educators encourage students to continue exhibiting those behaviors.
Interact Calmly and Respectfully with Misbehaviors
In any classroom, occasional misbehaviors may occur. The Stoic Framework emphasizes that educators should respond calmly and respectfully to these situations. Rather than reacting emotionally or punitively, educators should address misbehaviors by reminding students of the expectations and providing opportunities for them to correct their behavior.
Consistently Monitor and Review Expectations
Consistency is key to the success of the Stoic Framework. Educators should consistently monitor student behavior, providing feedback and reinforcement as needed. Regularly reviewing the expectations and reminding students of the agreed-upon behaviors helps reinforce the positive habits and prevents them from slipping.
Celebrate Progress
Throughout the school year, it is essential to celebrate the progress made by students in meeting the expectations. This can be done through class celebrations, recognition during school assemblies, or sharing success stories with parents. Celebrating progress not only motivates students to continue their efforts but also fosters a positive classroom culture.
Involve Students in Creating Expectations
An effective way to engage students in the Stoic Framework is to involve them in the process of creating expectations. When students have a voice in shaping the classroom rules and norms, they are more likely to take ownership of their behavior and feel a sense of responsibility towards upholding those expectations.
Active Listening during Class Discussions
Teachers can teach the expectation of active listening by demonstrating attentive listening behaviors, such as making eye contact, nodding in agreement, and asking relevant questions. They can then provide opportunities for students to practice active listening skills during class discussions and provide feedback on their performance.
Respecting Others' Perspectives
Teachers can teach the expectation of respecting others' perspectives by discussing the importance of empathy and understanding different viewpoints. They can encourage students to listen respectfully to their peers, avoid interrupting others, and express their own opinions in a constructive manner.
Completing Assignments on Time
Teachers can teach the expectation of completing assignments on time by clearly outlining due dates and providing reminders well in advance. They can also teach time management strategies, such as breaking tasks into smaller steps and using planners or digital calendars to stay organized.
Following Classroom Procedures
Teachers can teach the expectation of following classroom procedures by explicitly stating the steps for various routines, such as entering the classroom, transitioning between activities, and packing up at the end of the day. They can then model and practice these procedures with students until they become familiar routines.
Resolving Conflicts Peacefully
Teachers can teach the expectation of resolving conflicts peacefully by discussing the importance of communication, compromise, and empathy. They can provide guidance on how to express feelings calmly, listen to others' perspectives, and work together to find mutually acceptable solutions.
By setting clear expectations, teaching them explicitly, acknowledging positive behaviors, and responding calmly to misbehaviors, educators create a positive and productive learning environment. This approach not only helps improve student behavior but also fosters a sense of responsibility and self-discipline, empowering students to become active participants in their own learning journey.
