Why I Don’t Have Classroom Rules

Teachers’ training schools in the country focus a lot of time and resources on classroom management. The argument is that without proper classroom management, no learning can take place. It is the basics of conventional teacher training. As a teacher in Singapore, you understand these regulations very well, and most schools expect you to adhere to these rules faithfully.

With a code of conduct, educators argue there’s a better understanding between teachers and learners. There’s less stress as everyone knows what is expected of them which allows learning to take place.  From enrichment classes for toddlers to senior levels, there are written and unwritten rules to follow.

For any mistake, the student knows the type of punishment to expect. As a teacher, you know the kind of punishment to administer with little variation from the norms. But are stringent classroom rules necessary? Is the existing code of conduct the most effective foundation for classroom management?

In today’s fast-changing society, there’s a need to change this traditional thinking. There are new models of learning, including enrichment classes Singapore where the focus is not on rules but on helping the student grow wholesomely.

This post is about a teacher who took the road less taken and abolished all rules. It also examines how the teacher controls students and gets the best out of their experiences.

The Fears of the Unknown

There’s safety behind a code of conduct as it offers teachers an easy way out whenever an issue arises in the classroom. They know which punishment to administer, and most times, they don’t dig enough to identify any underlying issue with the student.

With time this becomes a lazy attitude in learning. For this reason, taking a step towards doing away with rules is a frightening one. You’ll have to worry about the consequences, especially regarding the student’s reaction.

Abolishing Class Management Protocols

Abolishing classroom management rules means you turn students from automatons into active participants. The idea is to go deep and help students understand the importance of these rules. This way, they can evaluate these rules, identify which ones really matter, and help you come with new ways of class management.

The process should be gradual as you observe the reactions of your students. As you do this, think about the changes you would want to make to relax the classroom environment. The idea is to create a productive learning community through the participation of your students in its management.

Before taking this risk, make sure you understand your students. Are they creative and open-minded? Do you think classroom rules constrain them? With this understanding, it’s possible to know how far you can go with the revolutionary approach.

Starting With a Simple Framework

As with any experiment, you need to start with a simple framework. Don’t abolish rules only to introduce a complex way of managing your class.  When coming with this framework, consider your school’s culture. Does it offer enrichment classes or the ordinary type of programs?

Other things to consider include the needs of your students and your values. You must have a philosophical viewpoint that’s guiding you when coming up with this new framework.

Let your student into your thinking and let them brainstorm on how their new classroom should be. This is the best way to create workable strategies as everyone will own them.  

Changing Norms and Behaviours

Over time, your students have become accustomed to a certain way of life in the classroom. Their behaviour revolves around the rules that you have now abolished. It means there must be a change of behaviour from the teacher and the students.

What are some of the behaviours that we can change individually and collectively? Answering this will give you a lot of ideas to work with. As a teacher, you have to emphasize the importance of some norms in learning even when you want to relax rules.

For instance, homework will still remain a cog in the learning process. However, it shouldn’t be the sole determinant of a student’s discipline. A learner’s day shouldn’t be ruined by the failure to complete an assignment.

Continuous Evaluation

As the teacher, provide room for evaluation after classes or even as the class progresses. Let the students air their views on the new environment and don’t stifle this discussion.

You should emphasize core community values, including respect for self and others, participation in classroom activities, staying prepared, and courage to speak out.

Application

Class management without rules is not a complex strategy and you can even apply some aspects to your classes for toddlers Singapore. It is a concept that requires a lot of time, but once it gains ground, you’ll enjoy having an active learning community.

Your students will start participating in class when you show them their input matters. It becomes more about these learners instead of the code of conduct.

Wrapping Up

Teaching is tough and if you approach it with the same old techniques, you will suffer frustration throughout your career. That’s why you need to find an innovative way for class management.  From the views of this teacher who dropped class management protocols, this looks like a smart strategy. It makes students active participants in your class.