The Democratic Classroom
“Our schools should emphasize commitment to a democratic system in which each citizen’s autonomy and dignity are honored in an open, just, respectful, and pluralistic community, a community that values and encourages a critical approach in the intellectual search for truth and meaning in each individual’s life” (Purpel, 1989, pg.87). I wholeheartedly agree with this statement, and believe that when a teacher applies a more democratic approach and shared power, classroom management is facilitated and student learning can lead to higher success.
In my experience as a student, teachers primarily employed an authoritarian approach to classroom instruction. The teacher had firm limits and had total control of his or her students and curriculum. Because of the lack of student input and never-changing routine, students in the classroom, including myself, felt disinterested, resistant and apathetic.
Schools are now adopting a democratic classroom which can be accomplished through building rapport and a classroom community. During my first placement, my advisor often would use this type of style, developing the culture of her classroom through shared decision making. One strategy that she would readily use with her students was collaboratively sharing the learning goals of each of her lessons and then developing the success criteria with the class. In addition, students would often self-regulate their own work, which helped them to think independently and to use that information for future assignments. I found that when she employed this type of approach, students were much more engaged and willing to participate, leading to greater student input, easier classroom management, and less acting out by the students. Democratic classrooms reflect our current society in which technology promotes and facilitates self-directed learning.
C.D.
Morrison, Kristan. "Democratic Classrooms: Promises and Challenges of Student Voice and Choice." Taking Sides: Clashing Views on Educational Issues 16e (2008): 86-93. Print.
In my experience as a student, teachers primarily employed an authoritarian approach to classroom instruction. The teacher had firm limits and had total control of his or her students and curriculum. Because of the lack of student input and never-changing routine, students in the classroom, including myself, felt disinterested, resistant and apathetic.
Schools are now adopting a democratic classroom which can be accomplished through building rapport and a classroom community. During my first placement, my advisor often would use this type of style, developing the culture of her classroom through shared decision making. One strategy that she would readily use with her students was collaboratively sharing the learning goals of each of her lessons and then developing the success criteria with the class. In addition, students would often self-regulate their own work, which helped them to think independently and to use that information for future assignments. I found that when she employed this type of approach, students were much more engaged and willing to participate, leading to greater student input, easier classroom management, and less acting out by the students. Democratic classrooms reflect our current society in which technology promotes and facilitates self-directed learning.
C.D.
Morrison, Kristan. "Democratic Classrooms: Promises and Challenges of Student Voice and Choice." Taking Sides: Clashing Views on Educational Issues 16e (2008): 86-93. Print.