Classroom discipline in schools and to a lesser extent colleges is a problem that costs hundreds, if not thousands of contact teaching hours every year.  Problem children with behavioral difficulties can often disrupt the flow of education, and those seeking attention through their behavior will often receive it because of the environment in our classrooms.  With no recourse to corporal punishment, how can we effectively keep discipline at bay in our schools?

Children are being brought up in a world so much different from that of their parents and grandparents.  It's a world where the child rules from day one, and is shrouded in cotton wool from the rest of the world and the dangers it poses.  The drastic consequences of this aside, its effect on classroom discipline is certainly strong.  Given such a high concept of self-importance from birth, children tend to reject the orders of teaching staff which not only hinders teaching, but can also create a dangerous situation for the child and his fellow classmates.  And it all comes back to the teachers who apparently can't keep control of our youngsters.

When it comes to maintaining discipline, one of the most prominent features for younger children is the rewards system.  Awarding points for good behavior and effort can be a good catch all, and also works by praising the good children, rather than diverting attention towards those intent on disruption.  Systems like these can be easy to run and can give rise to a marked increase in discipline and educational standards.

Another way to avoid disruption is to remove the offending party.  If there is a particular child or combination of children causing problems in the classroom, separation is a very effective method.  Exclude from certain group activities and separate from friends to create a hostile environment which is more conducive to effort, and acts as motivation to improve behavior.

Maintaining discipline in our classrooms has never been more difficult, and with teachers sued at the drop of a hat, it looks set to continue down this vein in years to come.  Only by remaining strong can the teachers of tomorrow get a grip of unruly pupils, and it certainly won't make the job any more appealing.  However, by ensuring effective enforcement of positives primarily, with effective discipline of bad behavior, we can go someway towards ensuring a helpful and safe learning environment for all.