Module 7: Creating a Positive Climate in the Classroom

Creating a positive classroom climate is one of the most important first steps for teachers to consider as they prepare for the school year. A positive classroom climate is a prerequisite condition in establishing an environment where students are able to learn and, at the same time, feel a sense of belongingness. Teachers create this climate in a variety of ways, including how they present themselves as professionals, how they arrange classroom furniture and materials, how they decorate the room, and how they greet and interact with students on a daily basis. Creating a welcoming classroom for students takes a great deal of prior planning and preparation. Specifically, teachers need to plan for establishing clear behavioral expectations, strategies for welcoming students, organizing the classroom, and developing motivating lesson plans. Jones (2001) considers classroom arrangement as the keystone for classroom management. He suggests that the way the teacher sets up the classroom arrangement will prevent most classroom disruptions. Additionally, teachers must display respect and warmth for every student. Each student needs to feel valued in order to be successful. Student learning may also be enhanced when teachers provide a high rate of positive statements and praise for engaging in behavioral expectations as posted in the classroom (Simonsen, Fairbanks, Briesch, Myers, & Sugai, 2008).