Resources for Educators
Teaching Tip
From the Teacher’s Aide Newsletter
2002 Spring
Avoid Class Conflict
- Have the students create and sign a learning contract and discuss each item.
- Discuss respect and honoring each individual s ideas and contributions.
- Build an interpersonal climate. Create bonds among classmates. Encourage open discussions about things that personally effect each student. Limit the time for this and make sure everyone gets a chance to contribute.
- Create an atmosphere of safety. One way to promote group trust is by addressing privacy and confidentiality issues.
- Avoid overt competition as much as possible. Instead promote classroom cooperation.
- Pair up partners by drawing numbers. This helps to avoid the problems of the person who never gets chosen or the buddies that never interact with any other classmates.
- Preserve a constructive learning environment by demonstrating respect for students dignity.
- Be honest and demand honesty.
- An introduction exercise is a useful tool for building affinity. Sharing pictures, quotes, short readings, and hobbies works well also.
- Believe in and convey the value of each student.
- Prompt student contributions in a non-threatening manner by drawing out and noting their interests.