How to discipline the 21st-Century learners

The recent incident about a public school teacher who slapped a 14-year-old student, that allegedly led his untimely death, is tragic and unfortunate.

If the stressed teacher had undergone an anger management course and special training on positive discipline, the fateful tragedy could not happened.

Disciplining 21st-Century learners can be a tough challenge to 21st-Century teachers. But disciplining can be achieve in a constructive and effective manner. Here are some strategies to consider.

Build positive relationships. Develop a positive and supportive teacher-student relationship. It helps create a conducive learning environment and encourages students to follow guidelines.

Set clear expectations. Clearly communicate expectations regarding behavior, participation, and academic performance. Ensure that students understand the rules and consequences.

Foster a culture of respect. Teach students the importance of respect for themselves, their peers, and the learning environment. Create a classroom atmosphere that promotes respectful dialogue and encourages students to value diversity.

Use differentiated instruction. Adapt teaching methods to meet the diverse needs of students. Provide engaging and challenging activities that cater to various learning styles and abilities, reducing the likelihood of disruptive behavior out of boredom or frustration.

Incorporate technology. Capitalize on the use of technology to engage 21st-century learners. Integrate interactive and multimedia elements into lessons to maintain their interest and participation.

Encourage student autonomy: Foster independence and decision-making skills by giving students choices and responsibilities within the classroom. It can help them take ownership of learning and behavior.

Provide timely feedback. Give constructive feedback on students’ work and behavior promptly. Recognize and reinforce positive behavior, and address any issues promptly and respectfully.

Implement a behavior management system. Utilize a consistent and fair behavior management system that reinforces a positive behavior and addresses negative behavior. It can include rewards, privileges, and consequences.

Collaborate with parents and guardians. Maintain open communication with parents or guardians to share updates on behavior and academic progress. Involving them in the disciplinary process can help create a united front in addressing behavior challenges.

Model expected behavior. Act as a positive role model by demonstrating the behavior and attitudes you expect from your students. Show empathy, patience, and understanding, encouraging them to follow suit.

Remember, each student is unique, and it may be necessary for the teachers to adapt these strategies that best suit individual needs.