Strategies to strengthen the bond between teachers and students
The relationship between teachers and students has changed over the years. From the figure of authority, strict rules, and one-way communication so prevalent in the early 20th century, to the current closer and more friendly role that fosters participation. This current role raises questions about the need to set rules and boundaries, and how this affects the bond with students.
The REcover Spaces for traumatized Children in Community Settings (RESCCUE) project, which aims to reclaim and reclaim safe spaces to prevent and detect domestic and online violence against children and adolescents, has developed various tools for schools to promote safe environments. According to materials for teachers, “when we talk about setting boundaries, we are talking about clearly defining expectations and acceptable behavior in the classroom. This is not about being authoritarian or imposing rules without reason. Instead, it is about creating a framework that allows students to understand boundaries and responsibilities, thus fostering respectful interaction. Authoritarianism, on the other hand, involves the excessive use of power and control, without taking into account the opinions and needs of the students. This approach can generate resentment and inhibit active student participation in the classroom. Setting boundaries is fundamental to creating an environment in which all members of the educational community can feel safe and valued.” When boundaries are clear, students know what is expected of them and what they can expect from the teachers. This creates a sense of confidence and establishes the fundamental elements for effective learning.
This relationship is, in any case, a fundamental pillar of the student learning process , and how these interpersonal relationships are established is key to student development, academic motivation, and self-esteem. Teachers frequently face various challenges in the classroom that can hinder this connection. Ultimately, these are personal interactions that should allow teachers to actively listen to students' emotions and needs , support them in finding emotional and learning management tools, and, in short, make them feel heard and free from prejudice. This connection is a key element in creating a safe space for students.
The emotional well-being of educational professionals and the organization of work
RESCCUE proposes various general strategies to strengthen the bond with students, although it is an exercise that each school can do internally, adapting them to the needs and characteristics of its center.
Strategies to strengthen the bond between teachers and students:
- At the end of the exam, include a question such as: "How did the exam go? Were you able to study? Did you find it very difficult?"
- Applying a sense of humor in the classroom, smiling, laughing and sharing relaxed moments with the students helps them feel calmer and more at ease in the classroom.
- Use emoticons to evaluate an exam to be more approachable.
- Pay attention to their reactions to understand the situations that occur in the classroom.
- Ask about their hobbies and perhaps link the content of the exams to what the class likes.
- Personalize the content of an exam or activity.
- Involve the students in what is being studied.
- Listen to and take their opinion into account.
- Tell an anecdote.
- Address them by name.
- Start the class by asking if anyone wants to share something that happened to them (5 minutes).
- Start the class by explaining a joke (5 minutes).
- Share with the class when you're having a bad day.
- Put on music you like.
The RESCCUE project, promoted by the Sant Joan de Déu Hospital and the Sant Joan de Déu Foundation (coordinators), the Open University of Catalonia, the Cornellà de Llobregat City Council and the Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital (Rome), makes available to the educational community two downloadable workshops, one to work on self-care from the professionals and another to learn the basics of the bond .
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