Dealing with classroom bullying can be difficult. If an inclusive environment does not already exist it may seem completely daunting to address the behavioural issue as no reference of proper procedures or rules are in effect. Having clear, concise classroom rules and expectations that all students have agreed upon gives the teacher a better ability to maintain order within the space. Creating classroom charters or mandates is a simple and effective tool to engage students in their own self-efficicy as learners. It establishes co-created standards and builds trust between all sides as they agree upon a social contract. Students also feel a greater sense of accountability in their actions as they themselves have had direct input into the social contract set upon the class (Nodding, 2006). This leads to greater social and emotional growth for youth in a space that becomes “theirs” as much as it is the teachers.
There are many different approaches to dealing with a situation in which a student uses undesirable language or name calling in a classroom. The first step is to shut down the conversation or offence right away. Having students know that certain language is unacceptable in the learning space is important to establish. While creating an environment where both the student and teacher have equal say is important, it is crucial that teachers remember they are the authority figure and must be responsible for maintaining a safe and inclusive environment. Once the language has been addressed a number of follow up procedures exist. First, classroom rules and expectations should be highlighted to remind all students what was agreed upon in your classrooms social contract.
If an offence is less widely acknowledged within the classroom a one-on-one discussion can be held after class with the students involved. This draws less attention to the situation which allows for a continued focus on the lesson at hand for all students in the space. Alternatively a classroom discussion could be facilitated by the teacher surrounding the word or phrase used in any bullying incident. Doing this sets very clear expectations for students around acceptable language in the classroom and also provides a teachable moment for all students to learn the history of words and how they have been used or altered through time (lets be honest -students do not always know the full meaning or history of the words they use to insult each other). Of utmost important in either situation is that the teacher remain calm and neutral. Reacting in a manner that villainies students can fuel the situation, thus drawing “battle lines” between the teacher and students that may sympathize with their classmate due to loyalty and friendship.