Last updated on Aug 10, 2024
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Assess Calmly
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Build Rapport
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Set Expectations
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Offer Choices
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Seek Understanding
6
Implement Consequences
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Handling a situation where a student refuses to follow instructions can be a challenging aspect of teaching. It's essential to approach such scenarios with a blend of firmness and understanding. You may encounter resistance due to various reasons, including personal issues, misunderstanding of the task, or a lack of interest. The key is to maintain classroom order while addressing the individual needs of the student. By using effective strategies, you can navigate these situations, ensuring a positive learning environment for all.
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- Saachi S. Academic Research and Development at Lighthouse Learning | Ex-JBCN
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- Andrés A. Alcántara Ogando Profesor de Español ELE en İTÜ Development Foundation Schools con experiencia en DELE A1-B1
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1 Assess Calmly
When a student refuses to follow instructions, the first step is to stay calm and assess the situation. It's important to understand why the student is not complying. Approach the student with a non-confrontational attitude and ask open-ended questions to get to the root of the problem. This can help you determine if the refusal is due to a misunderstanding, a personal issue, or just a momentary lapse in behavior. Keeping your emotions in check will allow you to handle the situation more effectively and set a positive example for the rest of the class.
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- Andrés A. Alcántara Ogando Profesor de Español ELE en İTÜ Development Foundation Schools con experiencia en DELE A1-B1
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Cuando un estudiante se niega a seguir mis instrucciones, mantengo la calma y trato de entender la causa subyacente de su comportamiento. Evito confrontaciones públicas y, en cambio, hablo con el estudiante de manera privada para entender su perspectiva y explicar la importancia de la instrucción. En una ocasión, un estudiante no quiso participar en una actividad grupal. Al hablar con él, descubrí que se sentía inseguro sobre sus habilidades. Le ofrecí apoyo adicional y modificamos la tarea para que se sintiera más cómodo, lo que resultó en su participación y éxito en la actividad.
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- Amparo Riefkohl Profesora de Educación Primaria.
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Platicar con el estudiante, aplicando empatía, después de observar su manera de ser. Poco a poco se va entendiendo el entorno en el que vive y de acuerdo a este ir aplicando una evaluación justa.
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- Ghulam Muhammad Abbasi English language and Linguistics Teacher, Teacher Assistant, Tutor, Student Writing Assessment,Editor
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I would prefer building rapport and offering choices. I have found this productive in most cases. In some other cases, I assign him/her the role of examiner/assessor , and ask to assess ex-students' portfolios/assignments and come with his/her suggestions.
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In handling a situation where a student refuses to follow instructions, remain calm and address the issue privately to avoid escalating it. Understand the student’s perspective by asking open-ended questions. Clearly explain the importance of the instructions and how they benefit the learning process. Offer choices to empower the student and encourage cooperation while maintaining respect and authority.
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- Shehryar Khan Associate Member @ Pakistan Red Crescent Society | Administrative Assistant | Digital Marketing | CSR | SDR |
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By assessing the situation calmly and objectively, you can create a safe and supportive environment that encourages students to open up and share their concerns, rather than becoming defensive or escalating the situation. This approach not only helps to de-escalate potential conflicts but also fosters a deeper understanding of the student's needs, allowing you to provide targeted support and guidance that addresses the underlying issues, ultimately leading to better behavior, improved relationships, and a more positive classroom atmosphere.
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2 Build Rapport
Building a strong rapport with your students can prevent many instances of non-compliance. Take time to know your students and show genuine interest in their lives. When students feel understood and respected, they are more likely to follow instructions. If a student still resists, use your established rapport to remind them of classroom expectations and their importance in the learning community. A relationship-based approach can often defuse tension and encourage cooperation.
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- Amparo Riefkohl Profesora de Educación Primaria.
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Crear una amistad sana con el estudiante nos lleva al éxito. Sin duda alguna es importante que se sienta acogido por un nuevo amigo, y eso es lo que somos los profesores. “Amigos “Creando una amistad sana los valores de responsabilidad y honestidad se crea una buena relación con ellos , escuchando sus inquietudes, siempre es bueno ponernos al mismo nivel y entenderlos.
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- Meg Largy Equipping Educators to Build Confident, Persevering Math Learners and Raise Achievement
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A strengths-based approach to classroom behavior emphasizes students' unique abilities, fostering a positive environment where they can leverage their strengths to overcome challenges. This method boosts engagement, confidence, and creates an inclusive classroom culture where all students can thrive.
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- Shehryar Khan Associate Member @ Pakistan Red Crescent Society | Administrative Assistant | Digital Marketing | CSR | SDR |
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By building a strong rapport with students, you create a foundation of trust, respect, and understanding, making them more likely to follow instructions and cooperate in the classroom, ultimately leading to a more positive and productive learning environment.
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3 Set Expectations
Clear communication of expectations is crucial in managing classroom behavior. Ensure that your instructions are clear and that students understand the consequences of not following them. Consistency in enforcing rules is key; it helps students understand the importance of adhering to classroom norms. When a student refuses to comply, calmly reiterate the expectations and the rationale behind them. This reinforces the structure of the learning environment and the significance of each student's contribution to it.
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4 Offer Choices
Giving students a sense of control can be effective when they refuse to follow instructions. Offer them choices within the boundaries of your classroom rules. For example, if a student refuses to complete a task, provide alternative ways to accomplish it or different time frames to do so. This method respects the student's autonomy while still maintaining your authority as a teacher. It's a delicate balance that, when managed well, can lead to increased student engagement and compliance.
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5 Seek Understanding
Sometimes, a refusal to follow instructions is a cry for help. It's essential to understand any underlying issues that may be affecting the student's behavior. Listen actively and empathetically when they express their concerns or frustrations. This can help you identify if there are learning difficulties, social conflicts, or other factors at play. With this insight, you can tailor your approach to meet the student's needs and guide them back on track.
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- Saachi S. Academic Research and Development at Lighthouse Learning | Ex-JBCN
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In my experience, when students refuse to follow instructions in the classroom, it is often a larger or deeper issue at hand which may stem from a sense of neglect in their lives or something personal they may be dealing with. The first step to being a good educator is to build listening skills. I would generally allow the student to work on something they want to in that moment and not give anymore instructions. After some time or after class, I would have a conversation with the student and gauge the genesis of the behaviour and take steps accordingly. When we treat kids as adults, they feel empowered and that can really change the dynamic!
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6 Implement Consequences
When all else fails, it's necessary to implement consequences for not following instructions. Ensure that these consequences are fair, consistent, and known to all students beforehand. It might involve losing certain privileges, additional assignments, or speaking with parents. The goal is not to punish but to teach responsibility and the impact of their actions on themselves and others. Always follow through with the consequences you've set; this upholds your credibility and the integrity of the classroom rules.
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