Major
Educational Studies
Submission Type
Poster
Area of Study or Work
Educational Studies
Expected Graduation Date
2022
Location
1st floor, State Farm Hall
Start Date
4-9-2022 8:30 AM
End Date
4-9-2022 9:00 AM
Abstract
The classroom environment is an integral part of the learning process. A respectful classroom environment is defined as a space where all students feel safe, comfortable, and valued both academically and emotionally (Miller & Pedro, 2006). There are many parts to fostering a respectful environment: student-teacher relationships, peer status, and classroom management. Multiple findings suggest that positive student-teacher relationships and peer status greatly contribute to a feeling of belonging in the classroom, which is a large part of fostering a respectful environment. In addition, inclusive and student-centered classroom management styles create and encourage a respectful learning environment as well. Finally, fostering an environment where all students feel valued leads to higher academic achievement and sense of belonging. The purpose of this study was to investigate the different ways in which teachers can build strong relationships with their students, foster positive peer relationships, and create classroom policies that ultimately contribute to a respectful classroom environment. Over the course of one semester of student-teaching, I compiled field observations, lesson plans, and student feedback in order to determine ways that positively fostered a respectful classroom environment in upper grade high school English classrooms. Understanding ways to foster a respectful classroom environment provides valuable insight for teachers on how to run a classroom.
Fostering a Respectful and Engaging Classroom Environment
1st floor, State Farm Hall
The classroom environment is an integral part of the learning process. A respectful classroom environment is defined as a space where all students feel safe, comfortable, and valued both academically and emotionally (Miller & Pedro, 2006). There are many parts to fostering a respectful environment: student-teacher relationships, peer status, and classroom management. Multiple findings suggest that positive student-teacher relationships and peer status greatly contribute to a feeling of belonging in the classroom, which is a large part of fostering a respectful environment. In addition, inclusive and student-centered classroom management styles create and encourage a respectful learning environment as well. Finally, fostering an environment where all students feel valued leads to higher academic achievement and sense of belonging. The purpose of this study was to investigate the different ways in which teachers can build strong relationships with their students, foster positive peer relationships, and create classroom policies that ultimately contribute to a respectful classroom environment. Over the course of one semester of student-teaching, I compiled field observations, lesson plans, and student feedback in order to determine ways that positively fostered a respectful classroom environment in upper grade high school English classrooms. Understanding ways to foster a respectful classroom environment provides valuable insight for teachers on how to run a classroom.