Chapter 9 Establishing an Environment for Learning

Task Systems in a Positive Learning Environment Task Systems Regular patterns of practices needed to accomplish particular functions Managerial Task Systems Non–subject matter functions that are necessary for smooth and efficient operation Instructional Task Systems Subject-matter functions designed to see that children learn the intended content

Key Points Establishing a learning environment involves managerial and instructional techniques (Task Systems) Used properly, task systems help students develop increased responsibility for their own behaviors, attitudes and learning Teacher attitudes plays vital role in establishing the learning environment (both positively and negatively) An environment that is established, consistent and positive reduces discipline problems and stimulates enthusiasm for learning

Key Points The Managerial Task System: Establishes teacher’s limits for behavior of students and involves students in being responsible and accountable for their own behavior and learning Should be considered in preparing for the beginning of the school year. What general behavior expectations do you have for your classroom? Develop a list of rules for your gymnasium. What will you do when the rules aren’t followed?

Establishing Managerial Task Systems Suggestions for Getting Ready for the Beginning of the School Year 1. Readying the gym 2. Planning rules and procedures 3. Determining consequences 4. Beginning school activities 5. Developing strategies for potential problems 6. Monitoring 7. Ensuring accountability

Establishing Managerial Task Systems Establishing Protocols Give an example of how would you begin to teach these protocols to your class. Do you promote responsible decision- making of students or do you maintain ‘control’? Entering and leaving the playground or gym Starting and stopping at a signal from the teacher Gathering up equipment when the stop signal is given—getting out and putting away equipment Selecting partners, teams, and groups

Key Points The Managerial Task System (cont): Teaching skills that help create and maintain managerial task system include: 1) Teaching protocols 2) Setting performance standards 3) Maintaining consistency

Key Points Teachers and Safety: Major responsibility of all physical education teachers is to ensure safety of each child Teachers are held accountable for acting “in a reasonable and responsible manner” Elements of negligence include duty, breach of duty, proximity cause, and injury

Points to Remember When Teaching Protocols Firm but warm Critical demandingness Rules—clear, positive, posted Developing ownership Practice

Design a Game! Design a game to teach a protocol What grade level? Name of game? As a result of playing this game, students will? Game rules and procedures: