Teacher Positioning: Shaping Classroom Dynamics

The way a teacher positions themselves in the classroom conveys crucial messages to students. These positions when used effectively play a vital role in shaping the classroom dynamic and the teacher-student relationship. They include:

1. Standing in front of the classroom:

This position typically conveys authority, control, and leadership. It signifies that the teacher is in charge of the class and ready to address the entire group. Teachers who conduct student centred lessons do not hold this position for more than 10 minutes before changing to another position.

2. Moving around the class:

Moving around the classroom indicates engagement and interaction. It suggests that the teacher is interested in every student and their learning, making the class more dynamic and inclusive. The movement is however purposeful, planned and aimed at benefiting each student or groups achieving learning targets for this particular lesson.

3. Stopping over a student or group:

Stopping to engage with a specific student or group can demonstrate individualized attention, support, or a need for clarification. It sends the message that the teacher cares about individual progress. This is one of the teacher classroom position used to creat and establish a learning culture amongest students. It's built around the "leave no student behind" principle which doesn't permit students to engage in other business other than the current lesson.

4. Leaning over a student or group:

Leaning over can be seen as an intimate or focused posture, indicating close attention to a student's work or a group discussion. It signals a desire to offer guidance or feedback. This needs to be done in a none threatening way and should take only but a brief moment, not more than 3 minutes. Should a teacher require more than 3 minutes to sort the student or group, then he or she needs to assume the next position.

5. Sitting with a student or group:

Sitting with students or a group suggests collaboration, mentorship, or teamwork. It fosters a sense of camaraderie and signifies the teacher's willingness to work alongside students. Unlike leaning or bending, the teacher can take considerably some time in this position. But this too, needs to be regulated keeping in mind how many more students or groups require similar attention. The teacher also needs to consider this sitting time to allow students to work independently or in groups let's he ends up spoon feeding the student or group of students.

6. Sitting over a teacher's station or chair:

A teacher must not assume this position during classroom instruction since this position might convey a more passive or administrative role, such as taking a break or managing class materials. It may not be as engaging or interactive as other positions.

Teachers often use a combination of these positions based on the specific needs of the class and the type of instruction they are delivering. The choice of positioning can significantly impact the classroom atmosphere and the student-teacher relationship.

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