A conflict in the classroom is when two forces clash due to a difference in beliefs, needs or expectations. Conflicts are inevitable because not everyone is going to get along all the time. Teachers can try their best to keep the peace but if something does happen our goal is to get the classroom back to normal as quickly, and safely as possible. A conflict in the classroom is when two forces clash due to a difference in beliefs, needs or expectations. Conflicts are inevitable because not everyone is going to get along all the time. Teachers can try their best to keep the peace but if something does happen our goal is to get the classroom back to normal as quickly, and safely as possible.
In order to avoid conflict it is important to build community within your classroom. Getting to know your students is the best way to build community. Students want to be heard and giving them the opportunity to tell their story is a great way to start. The class will have more respect for each other when they can understand one another. Another way to avoid conflict is by keeping you students busy. If they are engaged in class work they will have less opportunity to argue. Finally, I suggest posting an organized list of procedures that the students can use on their own in order to solve a problem. Attached I have included a photo of a problem solving wheel. The wheel has different choices and way to solve a conflict. Not only should the procedures that you want to use be posted but they should also be taught to the children so they are fully aware of what is expected of them.
If an argument does breakout the best thing a teacher can do is stay calm. Let your students each have a chance to listen and tell what each others issues. After listening you want to repeat what the student said for clarification. It is important to reiterate what you heard in order for the students to feel you are trying to understand their frustration. The worst thing a teacher can do is ignore issues that are happening within the classroom. Addressing the problem when it first happens will help stop the issue from growing. If you are having trouble coming up with a solution it is best to consult with colleagues. Use the resources that your school offers and follow procedure. One suggestion is Role Playing because students learn empathy by putting themselves in other peoples shoes. Have the students swap places and think about how the other person might be feeling.
Not only do the children bicker among themselves but altercations between students and teacher are also possible. In these situations it is important to not take what the students say personally because they are most likely acting out of anger. A good way to deal with a student who is upset about a test score is by recognizing their pain. For example, “I know you are upset about your test score but remember it is only one small part of your grade.” This way the child feels they have been heard while also de-escalating the issue.
If the dispute becomes physical you need to be assertive when breaking it up. While you stay as calm as possible let the children cool off before having a discussion. Offer to let the students speak in a private space so they do not feel judged. Maintain eye contact with the students. Once discussion starts avoid disagreement, but build on what was said. A good tip to remember is not to raise your voice, but instead your eyebrows.