Seemingly Small Behaviors That Drive Teachers Crazy in the Classroom
As a seasoned teacher, I have encountered numerous challenges that can make even the most patient and dedicated educator feel overwhelmed. From very simple, seemingly insignificant actions by students to complex issues of discipline, there are certain behaviors that, over time, can drive even the most enthusiastic educators to the brink of a mental breakdown.
Thermal Comfort and Classroom Environment
Imagine the daily struggle to keep a classroom at a comfortable temperature. Why is it always so hot in your class, especially on those miserably humid days, while your students somehow manage to remain cool and collected? Conversely, why is it so cold in your class, with heaters roaring and yet your students are shivering? These temperature discrepancies can disrupt the learning environment and create a distracting atmosphere.
Noisy and Disturbing Behaviors
The constant tapping, crinkling, and other distracting noises from students can be incredibly disruptive to the classroom environment. From pencil tapping, drumming chair rhythms, foot taping, to chair scooting, these seemingly innocent actions can obstruct focus and hamper the flow of learning. The incessant noise can make teaching feel like a never-ending struggle.
Purposeless Questions and Requests
From irrelevant inquiries about the use of personal devices to incessant and sometimes bizarre requests, these behaviors can further complicate the instructional day. Whether it's asking if you can charge an iPad, listen to music, or if you like gum, these questions often serve no real educational purpose and can occupy a significant portion of class time.
Distracting Physical Behaviors
The physical actions of students can also detract from the learning environment. From leaving a phone out in the open during class, to constantly standing or moving seats, students can create a chaotic classroom atmosphere. Moreover, poor hygiene, like holding on to cluttered snack bags or a Takis wrapper, can create a less-than-inviting environment for everyone.
Distractions from the Outside
The influence of outside factors, such as interruptions from school staff, can also disrupt the classroom. An office call via intercom, where the student responds instead of the teacher, can lead to classroom disruption and loss of instructional time. Additionally, students standing or reclining in their seats can further hinder the teacher's ability to maintain control and focus of the class.
Grading and Academic Concerns
Academic performance is a constant source of frustration. Students can struggle to grasp concepts or stay on top of their assignments, leading to questions about grades, reasons for poor performance, and how to improve. When a student shows little engagement or effort, such as turning in zero out of ten assignments, it can be disheartening for both the student and the teacher.
Health and Hygiene Issues
Student health issues can also create distractions. A hangnail or a paper cut might not seem like a major issue, but they can still cause discomfort or distraction. When a student lays over multiple chairs or even on the floor, not only does it disrupt the class, but it also raises questions about the student's well-being and the classroom environment's suitability for learning.
Conclusion
While these behaviors may seem minor, they can cumulatively create a significant barrier to effective teaching and learning. Teachers face a myriad of challenges daily, and these small but persistent actions can add to the stress. Recognizing and addressing these behaviors can help maintain a more orderly and focused classroom environment, making the teaching journey more enjoyable and fulfilling.