WHAT ARE THE GOALS OF CLASSROOM MANAGEMENT? WHAT DO YOU THINK ARE THE MOST IMPORTANT PRINCIPLES OF CLASSROOM MANAGEMENT?

"The most important action an effective teacher takes at the beginning of the year is creating a climate for learning."

-- Mary Beth Blegan, former U.S. Department of Education teacher

We as teacher know that classroom management is extremely important inside the classroom. Also, we know that it is closely related to issues of motivation, discipline and respect. Classroom management is used by teachers in order to create the perfect conditions to improve the teaching-learning process. It is a fact that teachers must establish behavior rules in the classroom in order to control the behavior of student in class. The main objective of classroom management is that the classroom lessons run smoothly without any disorderly behavior by students so that teachers can take 12 steps at the beginning of the scholar year to promote effective classroom management: 

1. Develop a set of written expectations you can live with and enforce. 

2. Be consistent. Be consistent. Be consistent. 

3. Be patient with yourself and with your students. 

4. Make parents your allies. Call early and often. Use the word "concerned." When communicating a concern, be specific and descriptive. 

5. Don't talk too much. Use the first 15 minutes of class for lectures or presentations, then get the kids working. 

6. Break the class period into two or three different activities. Be sure each activity segues smoothly into the next. 

7. Begin at the very beginning of each class period and end at the very end. 

8. Don't roll call. Take the roll with your seating chart while students are working. 

9. Keep all students actively involved. For example, while a student does a presentation, involve the other students in evaluating it. 

10. Discipline individual students quietly and privately. Never engage in a disciplinary conversation across the room. 

11. Keep your sense of perspective and your sense of humor. 

12. Know when to ask for help. 

WHAT ARE YOUR MOTIVES FOR TEACHING? WHAT REWARDS OR INCENTIVES DO YOU GET FROM TEACHING? HOW MIGHT YOUR MOTIVES INTERFERE WITH YOUR ABILITY TO PUT THE NEEDS OF YOUR STUDENTS AHEAD OF YOUR OWN?

Clearly, I have many motives for teaching. The most important is that I want to change the life of my students; I want to leave a mark in their lives. Undoubtedly, many teachers see their profession just as a job and they do it because they earn money. But we need to have clear that every single student has his own goals, feelings and fears. In other word every student is different from each other. For example, some students learn or understand in a quickly way but other need more time and practice to acquire that knowledge. Also, we as teachers need to take in account the environment in the classroom; students need to have a meaningful environment in which they feel comfortable in order to maximize the learning-teaching process. So that it is a fact that a excellent teacher must to fulfill the needs of their students, to be aware of the changes in the behavior of his students and to take care of them.

If the teacher is interested in the student’s life, behavior and goals, he will become like a father for their students and it will improve both the student-teacher relationship and the classroom atmosphere.    In fact, if the classroom atmosphere is good the student’s willingness to learn will increase and they will begin to have an active participation in the learning process. For example, my students of my teaching practicum participate actively in class, they do their homework, and they ask me constantly when I am going to teach them again and so on. These are the benefits when students get realize that a teacher is truly interested in them.

It is true that a teacher needs to improve their teaching skills constantly. But teachers have to keep n mind who are they teaching. Their students are the ones who will reflect their teaching skills. So that a teacher´s lesson plan and activities must to be focus in to fulfill correctly the needs that his students have. A teacher must be patient, flexible, respectful and tolerant with their students. But the most important thing is that a teacher must inspire his students to reach their goals, to overcome their problems and to continue no matter the situations that they have to deal with.

LIST THE THINGS YOU LIKE ABOUT WORKING WITH TEENAGERS. WHY? LIST THE THINGS YOU DON’T LIKE. WHY?

Teaching adolescents has been a wonderful experience since I remember my school days. But teaching to adolescents requires a plenty of skills such as being patient, flexible, sensitive. Also, teachers must to show respect, tolerance and interest to their students in order to create an excellent classroom environment in which student feel comfortable in sharing their ideas. This will make the learning process more meaningful.  I enjoy working with adolescents for many reasons:

Adolescent are very charismatic.

* They are honest.

* They are very creative.

* They are eager to learn they want to learn as quickly as possible.

* They catch everything faster.

* They are undeniable curious.

* They are very competitive.

Also, there are some disadvantages to teaching adolescents:

* They have too much energy.

* Sometimes is very difficult that they participate in class if they are not motivated.

 * They have other occupations that can distract them for the learning process.

* Their behavior is very unstable; they are like a bomb that can explode in any minute.

* You need to get into their ideas to try to understand what they are doing and how they behave.

* It is difficult to get their attention because they can get distracted very easily.

* Sometimes they behave like children.

* There is a high rate that they behave in a noisy way.

WHAT CAN THE WORLD WIDE WEB OFFER ESL/EFL TEACHERS?

It is a fact that the World Wide Web has expanded very rapidly in the past few years. There are a huge number of didactic resources available on the Internet. World Wide Web is probably the largest library in the world, with an incalculable number of resources. The World Wide Web has made it possible for anyone with a computer and a connection to the Internet to have access to many different resources. The resources are very easy to use, and many web pages are linked to related resources. It is possible to follow those linked resources by just clicking highlighted words with a mouse, rather than by typing WWW addresses (URLs). World Wide Web is perfect for learners who want to learn a second language because there are many online lessons to learn a second language.

Many searching engines are available in the web such as Google and Bing that are very powerful searching engines. They are very useful to users because with them they can find information and knowledge resources only with key words about the topic. More and more professional organizations have information available on line. Many journals and newsletters are offered on the World Wide Web. 

Since World Wide Web resources are very easy to make, many individuals have their web pages and make their own resources available to the public. For example, a teacher can find on the web many information resources such as lesson plans, teaching materials, student projects, reference materials for lessons, computer assisted language learning (CALL), and papers, articles, and essays for teachers. 

Thus, WWW has become a huge library. It provides not only text files (with characters) but also sound, pictures, and video. Resources on the WWW can be multimedia for users who have the necessary hardware and software.

Though the Internet can be compared to a library, there are some disadvantages. Resources on the Internet are not organized by any person, that is, the Internet is an accumulation of resources that are available for users and they are created by individual people or organizations. In addition, the content of resources is not screened by anyone, so there is no control over the accuracy of the information. Resources may be duplicated. There are no librarians, so help in finding resources may not be available. Since resources are provided by individuals or organizations, they may disappear or move at any time, if the individual no longer has access to the computer where the information is stored.

However, some of the differences between libraries and the Internet are advantageous to users. Resources on the Internet can be used anywhere in the world, as long as the appropriate hardware and software are available. Another advantage of the Internet is that it is interactive. Many web pages have e-mail connections to the person who is responsible for the web page; so that the learners can ask questions, make comments, etc. If you post a paper or article on line, you can get responses from others as well. So that learners can clarify any doubt about a specific topic.

HOW CAN THE STANDARD-FEATURES WORD-PROCESSING PROGRAMS BE EXPLOITED FOR TEACHING WRITING SKILLS?

Nowadays, Word-Processing programs are very important in the teaching-learning because they are a powerful tool that facilitates the learning of a second language. Clearly, no other technology resource has had a great impact on education as Word-Processing programs. These programs not only offer high usefulness and flexibility, they also are “model-free” instructional software. A Word-Processing Program can be used by teachers to support any kind of directed instruction since it value as aid in education is universally recognized. Also, these kinds of programs have become the most commonly used software in the teaching-learning process.

In order to take advantage of the powers of word processing requires considerable skill in its use. Word-Processing programs are a reliable source where students can improve their writing skills thanks to the features of these programs as grammar and spelling than can help students to correct and understand their mistakes and to write sentences, paragraphs, etc. in a more accurately way. Also, Word-Processing programs as Microsoft Word can help students to increase their vocabulary thanks to its synonym dictionary that its part of the features of this program.

Undoubtedly, using Word-Processing programs helps to write on a faster way so that they improve their writing fluency because students can arrange their thoughts and ideas in an easy manner. Good writing requires concentration and focus on the words used to express the ideas of the writer, and that means that the writer cannot be distracted by the mechanics of operating the word processor; its operation should be almost a second nature.

TECHNOLOGY IN THE TEACHING-LEARNING PROCESS OF A SECOND LANGUAGE.

Do you think technologies (e.g., videos, computers, etc.) should play a central or a peripheral role in second language teaching and learning? Why?

In my opinion, technology should play a peripheral role in second language teaching and learning. But why technology should play a peripheral role instead of a central role? It should play a peripheral role by the simple reason that the central role in the teaching-learning process is performed by the figure of the teacher.

Clearly, the figure of the teacher will never be replaced because it is decisive in this process. It is a fact that students have change so that the teaching learning process has to evolve. By this reason, teachers have to take in account new materials for their classes such as videos and Power Point presentations.

Also, teachers have to keep in mind that the need of students change trough the time so that teachers have to change or improve their teaching plan in order to fulfill in a complete way the student`s needs.

Nowadays, technology is very important for the teaching-learning process because it is a powerful tool that teachers use to convey knowledge in a very effective way. Technology has become a necessity in each classroom and it is used by the vast majority   of teachers because it is perfect to present or introduce a second language.

In conclusion, the central role in the teaching process is performed by the teacher who is in charge of choosing the correct activities and materials for their students with the help of technology.

THE ROLE OF RESEARCH IN IMPROVING OUR UNDERSTANDING OF TEACHING

Clearly, research plays an important role in improving our understanding of teaching because it provides many useful benefits to teachers. In fact, research is the bridge between the hidden side of education and future successful classroom activities.

Undoubtedly, research is a powerful tool that can be use as a teaching strategy for effective teaching.  Also, research helps to obtain meaningful knowledge and skills trough exploring different knowledge sources. But in my opinion, the ultimate goal of research in the teaching process is to enable teachers and teaching institution to make sound decisions about the educational activities and experiences that will best serve students.

 Nowadays, research is an essential part of teaching because teachers can use it to acquire knowledge and to clarify doubts about a certain topic. For example, imagine there is a teacher who has use the same teaching method plan for years. The teacher´s teaching method plan has worked for innumerable times but the principal assign a new class for the teacher. He use his teaching method plan but he got realize that his method do not work anymore. To resolve this problem, the teacher can use research to find another teaching plan that better suits his student’s needs. Also, he can pick characteristics from many teaching methods to develop a new teaching method that helps him to reach the goals that he aims for his class.

In addition, new teachers can use research in order to find information about how to plan their lessons and pick the correct topics for their students taking in account their age and precious knowledge. Teachers also can search attractive teaching materials, games, interactional activities and many other essential materials inside the classroom.

In conclusion, research is an necessary tool in the teaching-learning process because it serve as a meaningful guide to teachers who want to acquire new knowledge and clarify doubts about relevant topics.

EXPERIENCES BY LEARNING A SECOND LANGUAGE

Clearly, there are many ways to learn a second language. It is a fact that some ways are more effective than others. Also, to learn a second language depends on how much effort you make to learn it.

Undoubtedly, to learn a second language is a very different experience to each student. For example, the grammar structures can be very difficult for some students and very easy for others. The main reason is that, the student´s skills are not in the same level so that teachers must choose teaching methods that correctly fulfill the needs of the students.

In my case, I learned the 60% of all that I know about the English language by a non-conventional method: playing videogames. I learned how to use many grammar structures. Also, I improved my reading skill and I added many new words to my vocabulary thanks ti this particular method. So that, when I started to study English at school, I only needed to improve my pronunciation and writing skills. Even though many teachers did not believe me that I learned the vast majority of my English by playing video games, they started to believe in this particular method when I began to get good grades at tests.

Furthermore, I remember that my English teachers used many different methods to teaching English such as the Direct Method, the Audio-Lingual method, the PPP and the Grammar Translation Method. Some of these methods were really effective because I learned a lot with them. On the other hand, some teaching methods were worthless because they were focused on some aspects in which the majority of the students were skillful enough.

So that, teachers must be aware of the needs of his students in order to choose the most effective teaching method in order to fulfill the requirements that his students have. In order to reach this goal, teachers can create their own teaching method by choosing some features from the teaching methods that better fulfill his student’s necessities. Because teachers are not tied to an specific teaching method, they are free to develop their own teaching method.

A good teacher always trusts in their student´s potential and focuses their activities to challenge their student´s intellect in order to improve the skills and potential of their students. Teachers must have clear how to help their students to reach their purposes and goals. A teacher has to plant the seed of desire in the mind of his students and has to water it every day until the seed become a tree. A teacher plays an important role in the life of their students because the teacher is an example source to follow.

MAIN DIFFERENCES BETWEEN TEACHING APPROACHES, METHODS, TECHNIQUES AND STRATEGIES

In the learning-teaching process, we need to understand some concepts that are very common. These concepts can confuse the teachers if they do not have a clear definition of them.

We are going to discuss the definition and establish the main differences between some concepts that are very important for the teachers. These concepts are approach, method, technique and strategy.

Approach: I would say that this is the personal philosophy of teaching. What is the nature of education? What is the role of the teacher, the student, the administration, the parents? To be an effective teacher, does one need to strive to be authoritarian, to be autocratic, or is the best way to engender a sense of trust and familiarity, to be a 'educating/leading friend' to your students. To understand one's personal teaching approaches, one must first look to answer these types of questions. And of course, your opinion will change as time goes on - and it may vary depending on the students you're teaching.

Method: are the ways of presenting instructional materials or conducting instructional activities. A method comprises the principles and methods used forinstruction. Commonly used teaching methods may include class participation, demonstration, recitation, memorization, or combinations of these. The choice of teaching method or methods to be used depends largely on the information or skill that is being taught, and it may also be influenced by the aptitude and enthusiasm of the students.

Technique: These are the tricks we all know and use to get the job done in the classroom. Teachers have systems of rewards/punishments for students who comply and exceed or defy and lag behind. If a classroom is becoming distracted a teacher may use the technique of silent reading or shared reading to try to rope them in again. Another may choose to use a quick physical activity to distract their distraction and get them all to do the same thing at the same time - then quickly direct them back to work. This is really where someone with loads of experience can help another teacher improve her abilities. These are the tricks that can be taught to another teacher. Also a lot of teachers attend offer little tidbits of games, activites, and actions that teachers can use to achieve certain goals in the classroom. Everything from sending a note home to mom and a trip to the principal's office to giving out 'points' for good behaviour are examples of teaching techniques.

Strategy: include all approaches that a teacher may take to actively engage students in learning. These strategies drive a teacher's instruction as they work to meet specific learning objectives. 

THE MOST IMPORTANT PURPOSE IN EDUCATION: SELF-FULFILLMENT

SELF- FULFILLMENT

First of all, we have to define what self-fulfillment is: “the fulfillment of one's aspirations, hopes, etc. through one's own efforts.”

Self-fulfillment is our goal as teachers. Good teachers are always encouraging their students to be focused and reach their goals, to overcome problems and to never give up. Self-fulfillment is very important because as long as a person lives, he must have goals and dreams that will inspire and motivate him to improve. Happiness comes from making own decisions, putting in the best efforts and living dreams After putting in the hours and the energy, a person deserve to feel content and satisfied on the realization of his desires and ambitions.

A good teacher always trusts in their student´s potential and focuses their activities to challenge their student´s intellect in order to improve the skills and potential of their students. Teachers must have clear how to help their students to reach their purposes and goals. A teacher has to plant the seed of desire in the mind of his students and has to water it every day until the seed become a tree. A teacher plays an important role in the life of their students because the teacher is an example source to follow.
A teacher must have clear that he is teaching to inspire his student, not just for conveying knowledge. An excellent teacher has only one purpose: to change his student´s life and to leave a print in their lives. 

To reach this purpose, a teacher must have some characteristics. For example, he must be responsible, innovative and trusty. Also, a teacher must be approachable with his students. In other words, a teacher must have dedication with his work and has to take care of his students. He must to be aware in any change to his student´s behavior, taking into account the stimuli that are either inside or outside the classroom. 

Teachers have to use the transformational education that is the act of teaching designed to change the learner academically, socially, and spiritually. Transformational teaching begins with the learner, and transformational learning involves deep understanding and occurs in classrooms where teachers have high expectations.

THE TRANSFORMATIONAL PEDAGOGY MODEL

WHY DO WE TEACH???

Many people think that teaching is only focused in conveying knowledge, assigning homework and measuring student’s knowledge with activities that do not show the real potential of the students. I think that a teacher must try to take care of his students, to make them feel comfortable and special either inside or outside the classroom.

A teacher needs to focus in the environment that students will have to deal with inside the classroom in order to maximize their learning process.

I want to be a teacher because I like the idea of seeing your teacher as a father. I know that it will be difficult, but when I become a teacher I will try to be like a father to my students. I will keep in mind that a teacher never has to cross the line between to be a teacher and to be a friend to their students because if they do that, they will have some problems with the respect and authority inside the classroom.Many people think that teaching is only focused in conveying knowledge, assigning homework and measuring student’s knowledge with activities that do not show the real potential of the students. I think that a teacher must try to take care of his students, to make them feel comfortable and special either inside or outside the classroom.

A teacher needs to focus in the environment that students will have to deal with inside the classroom in order to maximize their learning process.

I want to be a teacher because I like the idea of seeing your teacher as a father. I know that it will be difficult, but when I become a teacher I will try to be like a father to my students. I will keep in mind that a teacher never has to cross the line between to be a teacher and to be a friend to their students because if they do that, they will have some problems with the respect and authority inside the classroom.

THE TRANSFORMATIONAL PEDAGOGY MODEL.

First of all, I have to define what the transformational pedagogy model is:

“The Transformational Pedagogy Model is an act of teaching designed to change the learner academically, socially and spiritually.”

This means that if a teacher is using this method in their classes, he must to be aware of any change in their student’s behavior and in the student’s feelings because they affect the performance of each student in the classroom. A teacher has to create a meaningful environment inside the classroom in order to enhance the learning process. Also, a teacher must work in the rapport with his students because rapport is essential in the classroom and it will help that the students trust on the teacher. In other words, students will start to share their emotions If their feel comfortable with the teacher.

A teacher must be for his students as the light at the end of a tunnel. But, why a teacher must be like the light at the end of a tunnel? Because a teacher has to assume the role of a guide in order to help their students to overcome difficult situations. A teacher has to trust in their students and he has to take care of them as a father does with their child. Teachers have to constantly motivate their students in order to encourage them to reach their goals.

Teachers have to use:

“A holistic education that comes from the relationship built by sensitive teachers using pedagogy attuned to the academic, social and spiritual needs of learners.”

In my opinion, all of those characteristics have a big influence in the pre-service and in-service teacher. In the case of pre-service teachers, their main objective is to acquire those characteristics. Pre-service teachers can aspire to be great teachers and to change the life of their future students. In the other hand, we have in-service teachers. They can change the methodology in order to improve the learning process and to leave a print in their pupil´s life.

In both cases, teachers must have clear who are teaching: “their students.” they have to consider student’s aspirations rather than “the subject achievements” in order to become wonderful teachers.