Student Management:
Creating a Positive Learning Environment |
Context: |
| In addition to tutoring techniques, tutors are often hungry to learn strategies for managing student behavior. Some of the reasons for students' behavioral issues are beyond the tutor's control (e.g., family, home situation), but far more are related to the kind of learning environment we establish. A key to managing student behavior is creating a positive, supportive learning environment in which students are comfortable and motivated to learn. |
Goal: |
- To define what constitutes a positive learning environment and give tutors support in responding to and managing student behavior.
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Activity: |
| Ask tutors to reflect for a few moments on a very positive learning experience they have had. Have them right down 3-5 key words that define that experience and discuss with a partner. Ask volunteers to share their reflections and create a list of qualities on flipchart paper. You may get responses like "engagement," "hands-on," or "having a choice of activities," among others. Lead a discussion about ways tutors can incorporate those qualities into tutoring sessions. Refer to the handout Tutoring Tips for further ideas on structuring sessions to create a positive learning environment. |
Key Questions and Points to Remember: |
- Handling students' behavior and motivation problems takes practice. Over time, tutors will build up a repertoire of positive responses to help engage tutees in their learning.
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 Download the Tutoring Tips in PDF format.
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Developed by LEARNS, a partnership of the Northwest Regional Educational Laboratory (1-800-361-7890) and Bank Street College of Education (1-800-930-5664). For additional activities or assistance, please call. |
