Democratic Classroom by

Definition

cook8521_ — 2024-10-16 02:56:33 UTC

A democratic classroom is a classroom environment in which students have a say in how they learn and what rules they follow. Teachers and students work together to form a culture in their classroom community where everyone’s voices are heard.

Teacher Role/Responsibility

cook8521_ — 2024-10-16 03:02:33 UTC

act as a facilitator
encourage student participation
foster critical thinking
provide students opportunities to use their voice

The role of a teacher is to create an environment where each student feels confident to share their thinking and take ownership of their learning. Teachers must also engage in active listening to ensure all students diverse thinking is appreciated.

Student Role/Involvement

cook8521_ — 2024-10-16 03:08:18 UTC

A students role in a democratic classroom is to actively engage in and take ownership over their learning process. To do this, they must:

share their opinions
make decisions about their learning
contribute to discussions
actively listen
work with peers to achieve common goals
self reflect to evaluate learning process
be respectful of peers
problem solve

Decision Making Process

cook8521_ — 2024-10-16 03:14:49 UTC

Students make important decisions in their learning at every available opportunity. They will set classroom rules at the beginning of the year and hold themselves accountable for following these rules. With this process, students experience the meaning of power, authority, governance, and civic ideals and practices. Students consider their needs and the classroom needs while identifying the responsibilities of each fellow students. When conflicts arise, students come up with potential solutions while the teacher mediates. These processes also include voting, group discussions, and self reflections.

Classroom Management

cook8521_ — 2024-10-16 03:17:34 UTC

In a democratic classroom, the power is shared with the students. Due to this, students are more likely to follow the rules that they helped create as they become more invested in the potential outcome when they had a say. While this is a key strategy to conquering classroom management, there still must be a predictable routine set in place.

Additional Qualities

cook8521_ — 2024-10-16 03:21:05 UTC

Additional qualities of a democratic classroom include high-trust relationships between teachers and students, respect for ALL children’s ideas and perspectives. As for the physical set up of a democratic classroom, there should be a place for students to go to reflect, calm down, or resolve conflict. The seating can be arranged in a circle, which provides optimal opportunity to see and hear each student.