Education

15 strategies teachers can adopt to get students to obey instructions – ITN

Hon Jerry Akporhor- Lead Educator @ Informed Teachers Network

Here are 15 strategies teachers can adopt to get students to obey instructions. Teachers employed by the GES and those working in private schools can adopt them.

Hon Jerry Akporhor- Lead Educator of Informed Teachers Network writes:…

Students appear to respect or obey the instructions of some teachers more than others.

Some teachers also wield so much influence that they can control students from other schools seamlessly so long as they bear the tag, students.

For instance; during inter-school activities.

Unfortunately, some teachers also struggle even with students in their class. New teachers and newly trained teachers suffer these the most.

What unique characteristics do these Teachers have? What do they do differently that we should learn from them?

Well, it has something to do with what I call the 3Cs; Charisma, Confidence and Composure.

Here are 15 strategies to help you get students to obey instructions: The more of these qualities you show, the better.

1. Create a good impression from the very day you appear in the school as a teacher. First impressions last.

2. Dress well and be neat. You don’t necessarily have to dress expensively.

3. Prepare well for lessons. Be in charge of your content.

Have command over the subject area. This and 2 above builds your confidence.

4. Review your teaching methods and class control mechanism if you have evidence that it’s not working.

5. Have good professional philosophy. Set rules and appropriate corresponding sanctions.

6. Be firm and fair. Always insist that the right thing is done. Be an example. Be consistent, but unpredictable.

7. Don’t confuse being strict with shouting. Don’t make your corrective measures create the impression that you hate them.

8. Avoid the use of vulgar words in class and when communicating with them.

9. Be friendly with them – Create a good bond with them but set limits. They should know when you are serious. Familiarity brings contempt.

10. Find time to teach them moral values while practicing the same.

11. Respect yourself, respect them, respect other teachers. Respect is reciprocal.

12. Call them by their names. Let them come closer to you before you give the instructions in clear language.

They are more likely to obey when closer. If not for COVID-19, touching or holding their hands works just well.

13. Look for the controlling personality amongst them and get him or her to your side and others will follow. You can use him as a scapegoat when the need arises. Every group has a leader.

14. Create a good name for yourself in town. They hear everything.