8082 MD2 DIS1

4

8082 Module 2 Discussion 1:

Cultivating Positive Classroom Cultures

Imagine walking into an early childhood setting. Are you able to get a sense of whether there is a positive culture and classroom community? Are children actively engaged in activities with each other? Can you observe interactions that show children caring for and respecting each other? Are the adults showing care and respect for the children and for each other? Do both children and adults seem to be enjoying themselves and feel comfortable in the environment? Can you tell whether families are an integral part of this environment?

When a positive classroom culture exists, children take risks, accept challenges, reach out to each other for help and to help, and express themselves in multiple ways. Such settings feel energetic and relaxed rather than frenetic and tense.

How can early childhood professionals foster and maintain these nurturing environments for healthy development and learning?

For this Discussion, you will share your insights on positive classroom culture after observing some video vignettes of early childhood settings.

To Prepare:

Review the blogs of your peers from last week’s Assignment and reference at least 2 resources from their blogs for this week’s Discussion. In addition, review the video resources provided. Consider: How do the adults in the videos interact with the children and each other? How do the children interact with each other? What evidence do you see that provides insights on the strengths and the challenges to cultivating and maintaining a positive classroom culture? How does what you observe compare with what you have been learning from the Learning Resources in this module?

Assignment Task Part 1

Post a 1 ½ page response that addresses the following:

· Based on your learning thus far, identify several critical components to creating a positive classroom culture.

· Why is it important for early childhood professionals to focus on positive classroom culture and community?

· Explain how building positive classroom culture and community reduce the need for “managing” children.

· Why is it important to consider family cultures and perspectives when selecting strategies for building classroom community?

· What challenges or barriers may impede the development of positive classroom culture and community?

Assignment Task Part 2

Read a selection of your colleagues’ postings.

Respond to two of your colleagues’ postings in 125 word response each. Address one of the challenges presented by a peer, and use your experience or a resource to suggest a solution. Provide a rationale for why you feel this is an appropriate action to overcome this challenge.

Cite appropriate references in APA format to substantiate your thinking.

Note:  Throughout the week, continue the professional dialogue by answering questions your colleagues have asked.