Explain how you would establish ground rules with your learners, and how this promotes respect for others. Ground rules—a code of conduct by which to exist whilst undertaking the course—are important in a supportive learning environment, as they aim to characterise normal behavioural traits from both sides of the teacher’s desk. In order to maintain a successful and didactic ambiance in a classroom, both learner and learnee must feel comfortable with the boundaries established for each other, at an early stage in the relationship.
That’s not to say that setting these rules should be a needlessly draconian procedure; in fact, an entertaining and light-hearted approach would be advantageous, both to teacher and student alike. Given the introductory nature of such an exercise, it could serve to establish a relaxed and fun surrounding from which to learn/teach, and a class that is having fun is more likely to learn. The approach to establishing ground rules will vary according to the situation, time being the key factor. If time is scant, a tried and tested set can be presented, and the suitability briefly discussed and agreed upon by all.
If time allows, a more involved discussion can take place, with rules being added and taken away as the class sees fit. Ideally, though, the class themselves will take the lead, and define the entire list themselves, through suggestions, discussion and, hopefully, a mutual agreement. This way, the rules will feel more organically grown and esoteric to each group of learners. Plus, there is the added benefit of the process of involved discussion and openness within the group. Ground rules that I, personally, would seek to establish would be based on a foundation of simple common courtesy.
The Essay on Examples of ways to establish ground
... classes in your specialist area embedding functional skills. The document should demonstrate your understanding of: a) ways to establish ground rules with learners ... gives clear objectives; lesson plans with suggested time frames, how to assess, monitor and review ... practices: evacuation procedures, whereabouts of toilets, suggested break/lunch times and use of mobile phones. Introduce yourself. ...
These would include—but not be confined to—dialogue ettiquette (observe the general rules of polite conversation – listening, thinking, and only then speaking, and not overtalking anyone else); constructive feedback and criticism (not denouncing other students’ ideas and beliefs with insults – if one thinks that someone is talking a “pile of old plop”, simply state a disagreement and, more importantly, why you disagree); punctuality (the rest of the class will benefit if earlier points of the lesson don’t have to be re-iterated on the behalf of one or two students’ tardiness); and mobile phone deactivation (The world won’t end if you can’t receive SMS messages for an hour, will it? ).
Of course, these rules should apply to all members of a classroom, but the teacher carries the burden of a few extra edicts, given the position they occupy.
Among these are a duty to deliver informed and enjoyable lessons, a form of social blindness – all students deserve to receive equal opportunities and attention, and showing a commitment to promptly grading work and providing constructive feedback. The setting of the ground rules can help promote respect for fellow students by involving them all in the same process, early doors. During the actual setting of the rules, individuals will voice concerns, and they will be duly noted by the whole class, with any luck. It may also prove beneficial to have a quick re-cap a few weeks into the course, allowing for any overlooked/redundant points to be added or taken away, respectively.
