Haim Ginott
Management Through Communication & Reinforcement
Overview of Ginott’s Model
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The overall classroom atmosphere should be dealt with, not individual behavior
problems
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Teachers should address the class personally, using "I" statements
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"Congruent Communication" should be used with students, which basically
means dealing with students using non-aggressive language
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Children’s self-esteem is greatly affected by their interaction with adults
Assumptions
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The teacher’s mood will affect the overall attitude of the classroom
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The language a teacher uses to communicate with their students is crucial
Instructional Implications
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Don’t arbitrarily label the students
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Avoid using any sarcasm in the classroom
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Speak concisely; use direct and purposeful statements
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Correct students by directing them to the proper alternative
Teacher’s Role
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Correct students by directing them to proper behavior examples
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Be respectful of student needs; never belittle them
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Model civil behavior
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Confer dignity on the students
Strengths
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This model promotes intrinsic motivation
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Builds confidence of the students
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Encourages respect
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Acknowledges student’s feelings
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Invites cooperation
Possible Weaknesses
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Time consuming
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Does not address extreme behavior problems
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Assumes that children are all intrinsically motivated
References
Charles, C.M. (1999).
Building Classroom Discipline. New York: Addison Wesley Longman,
Inc.
More Models of Classroom Management
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