The Authority in the Classroom

K-12 Education in the United States

K-12 stands for “from kindergarten to twelfth (12) grade” in the American educational system. Thus, pupils in the United States range in age from five to around 18 when they enter grade twelve. The No Child Left Behind Act, passed under President Bush’s administration, requires accountability and standardized testing, putting pressure on educators to raise student achievement levels. Therefore, K-12 educators have a duty to ensure that students do better, and this requires that the educator establish his or her authority in the classroom while yet fostering a flexible learning atmosphere that is accommodating to all.

Managing Behavior in the Classroom

Multiple disturbances, including violence and bullying directed at teachers, can undermine effective instruction and the exercise of authority in the classroom. Thus, as a K-12 teacher, there is a need to effectively manage the behavior of the students as the most effective approach towards establishing authority in the classroom. Different strategies can assist to improve the management of behavior in the classroom. According to Pace and Hemmings (2007), psychological research and science can provide answers for teachers and schools to promote a positive learning atmosphere. Therefore, I can apply some psychology insights that can come in handy to assist in the management of behavior problems, motivate learners, help struggling students, handle stress, support talented and gifted youth and more.

Classroom Management Strategies

As a teacher, I can also learn and apply basic classroom management comprising individual and class-wide strategies. For example, the first attempt to assert my authority while creating a responsive learning environment would entail collaborating with my students in discussing and writing a classroom “contract” adopting acceptable procedures and rules within the first week of schooling (Pace & Hemmings, 2007). These rules and procedures will be reviewed periodically to guide the rules of engagement until the pupils can effectively adhere to theme. For instance, the rules will stipulate simple reprimands that will be taken in case of a misbehavior and how to resolve behavioral and emotional challenges causing classroom disruptions.

Establishing Authority and Promoting Effective Learning

In sum, K-12 teachers can assert their authority in class by proper classroom and student management practices. The teachers need to instill discipline and develop ground rules that will guide positive behavior to avert disruptions in the classroom. Most importantly, psychological insights can assist students to establish competence and skills that support effective learning.

Reference

Pace, J. L., & Hemmings, A. (2007). Understanding authority in classrooms: A review of theory, ideology, and research. Review of Educational Research, 77(1), 4-27.