Evidence-based resources to help school leaders across Australia lead a coordinated, whole-of school approach to classroom management have been released today.
Commissioned by the Australian Government, the Australian Education Research Organisation (AERO) has developed these contemporary resources as part of the Engaged Classrooms Through Effective Classroom Management project.
This work responds to findings that one in three Australian teachers are losing valuable teaching time due to classroom disruptions that impact safety and student outcomes.
Reports from students and teachers show low-level disruption in Australian classrooms is negatively impacting learning outcomes. Most concerns are related to disengaged and disruptive behaviours.
“It’s the extreme frequency of low-level disengaged and disruptive behaviour that places a substantial strain on the teacher in the classroom and hinders student learning,” Dr Jenny Donovan, AERO CEO, said.
Dr Donovan said school leaders play a fundamental role in building and maintaining safe and effective learning environments by fostering a shared understanding and consistent application of effective practice across their schools.
A whole-school approach provides clarity and predictability for both teachers and students and maximises the time available for teaching and learning.
“A whole-school approach helps all staff members to build positive relationships with students and families, and facilitates consistent, shared expectations, routines and rules across the school,” Dr Donovan said.
“While there are well-established evidence-based practices teachers can use to create safe and supportive learning environments, the impact is strengthened when these practices are part of a consistent whole-school approach.”
The new AERO resources are based on the most rigorous and relevant contemporary research evidence and expert advice available and were developed in consultation with teachers and school leaders. They support school leaders to consider how their schools’ current approaches align with evidence-based approaches and identify areas of current practice to strengthen.
- Whole-school approach facilitation guide: a comprehensive guide to help school leaders to lead staff in professional learning to support their whole-school approach to classroom management.
- Whole-school approach professional learning resources: slide decks with preparation and facilitator notes designed to provide a starting point for building knowledge about the evidence base for classroom management and the school’s approach.
“A whole-school approach should reflect the values and aspirations of families and the community; clearly outline clear, shared expectations and language; and support the building of shared understanding and practice,” Dr Donovan said.
The new resources are available on AERO’s website support leaders to develop safe and supportive learning environment in their schools.
