This essay will also discuss the advantages of teachers creating a positive and happy learning environment in the classroom. Teachers need to carefully plan a behaviour management theory/model that closely reflects their personal philosophy and ultimately, assists them to engage and achieve learning outcomes for their cohort of students.
Behaviour management skills are essential for pre-service teachers and teachers. Establishing yourself confidently with your class - whichever theory/theories of behaviour management you prescribe to – is an important first step when teaching a new class. Groundwater-Smith, Ewing & Le Cornu (2003, pg.255) comment: “Many students will no longer respect the teacher solely because he or she is the teacher. They will try out the beginning teacher to see whether they are worthy of respect and trust.” I believe creating a positive learning environment will help students to gain that respect and trust. Ewing, Lowrie & Higgs (2010) state that establishing a sense of community in the classroom is an important initial step in creating a positive learning environment.
Rogers proposes a person-centred approach in his humanistic theory. Consequently, there is significant freedom for students. Students need to decide what type of behaviour is suitable for them, while having respect for others. Edwards & Watts (2008, pg. 28) explain: