Empowering Classrooms: Building positive environments and effective management

This course revolved around positive practices in the classroom. The participants reflected on their own concept of the "perfect classroom environment", and were provided the skills of effective classroom management for further development. The course aspired supportive classroom tool building and positive climate habits for the students.

The above topics and further themes were discussed in the new edition of the course "Effective Classroom Management Strategies for teachers and education staff" that took place in Bologna from 22/10/2023 to 28/10/2023. The participants included Georgia, Eleni and Zoi from 12th primary school of Trikala in Greece, Belén and Rocío from I.E.S. Pablo Picasso in Spain.

One of the first themes learned in class was Social Emotional Learning. This skill refers to the capacity of individuals to recognize their own and other people's emotions, to differentiate between different feelings and label them appropriately, and to use emotional information to guide thinking and behavior. The participants will use Social Emotional Learning to create a more tolerant and supportive atmosphere in their class.

We then later explored Group Dynamics. Learning how to be attentive to the different dynamics in a class is a crucial element in ensuring a tension-free atmosphere that encourages students’ participation and also avoids school drop-out. Various activities were performed in order to develop high sensitivity to different behaviors of individuals in a group, and practice inclusive methods. 

In a combination of theory and practice, the participants tested some ICT tools that could be beneficial and helpful in creating engaging learning experiences for students and better manage student-centers learning.

The participants later worked on communication, especially investigating importance of promoting a growth mindset and trust-building conversation, but also how to structure an effective and constructive feedback.

Lastly, conflict management was discussed. After exploring their own perceptions and preconceptions, the participants gained insights on how conflicts can be extremely beneficial if managed in the right way. Practicing vulnerability and taking ownership of our own actions and behavior was seen as the key to transformative conversation and improving relationships with and among students.
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In conclusion of the course, three major factors of Classroom Management emerged as critically important in shaping a supportive climate for students. First of all, Engagement: the class environment should be centered around students and actively involve students in the learning process. The second factor discussed was Safety because the class should be a safe place, both emotionally and physically. Last but not least, Relationships are essential: the class should be a happy place, transmitting peace and calm, promoting, promoting respect for diversity, dialogue and understanding.

More info on this course here.