Classroom Management and Student Discipline - Research Paper Example

1). Thus, classroom management is instrumental to both effective learning and teacher retention. Classroom management strategies are highly defined by theoretical assumptions borrowed from various disciplines such as developmental psychology and biology. Borrowing from these disciplines is logical since classroom management is highly contingent to the specific age group. The goal of this essay is to examine the theoretical models behind the practices in classroom management. Towards this end, I will be comparing and contrasting three theoretical strands in classroom management practices.

These are reinforcement theory, classroom ecology and group process, and child-centered traditions. The succeeding section of the essay highlights the theories I have chosen and provide examples of strategies that are hinged on the specific theory discussed. The third section will engage in a critical analysis of these theories. In conclusion, I will argue that the major theories though diverging at some points, do not necessarily contradict each other. I will emphasize the need for more empirical data on the classroom management strategies and the need for teachers to continuously engage in research to develop effective practices that have sound theoretical foundations.

Strategies and practices in classroom management are hardly created from air. “There is no evidence to support the assumption that new teachers will just “pick up” classroom management skills given the experience and time (Ingersoll & Smith, 2003, p. 3). Like any discipline, effective techniques evolve through philosophical discussions and sound theoretical background. The following section discusses three of these major theories. Behaviorism became a popular concept in the early twentieth century, from which the reinforcement theory developed.

“Reinforcement theory emphasizes the centrality of