RESPECT

How do I define respect?

Well, respect to me means that you look up to someone with high regards.  If you get someone’s respect you are valued in a way to that person.  You are willingly showing someone you appreciate them.  It could potentially be anyone in your life.  Respect can be shown through actions and can also be felt. 

How does it look in the classroom?

First off, I would teach the students the golden rule.  It is very essential and I think would help a lot of students respect one another better.  The golden rule is to treat everyone how you would like to be treated.  If the students followed this rule you would be able to see respect in the classroom.  As educators, it is part of our job to make sure students are treated with respect while in our classrooms.  If they are with us then they all should be treated equally with respect.

What is the impact of respect or lack of respect in the classrooms?

The impact of respect can be very good in the classroom.  It allows the students to feel comfortable in the classroom with their teachers and the other students.  If the students feel respect in the classroom they will trust you as a teacher more.  With lack of respect in the classroom I feel it could bring down the class.  If you hear disrespectful comments in the classroom make sure you say something to the students.  Let them know that isn’t okay to say anytime.  If nothing is said the students will think those comments are allowed.  If there is a lack of respect in the classroom students might not feel safe or comfortable to learn in that type of environment.

How is respect best established in a classroom environment?

Again, on the first day of school establish those classroom rules on what is allowed and what isn’t.  Make a game or activity to help the students understand.  If the students understand the rules then they should be able to treat everyone with respect.  An important rule that should be established is the golden rule.  This gives you the chance to honor the students, how they feel, what they say and do.  Then you as a teacher can expect them to do the same to you and to other classmates.