As an TC of the SEL cohort I have learned the importance of creating a classroom climate in which students are able to build safe and strong peer relationships. We analyze the theory behind this notion and brainstorm strategies to implement, however, when faced notion in reality is not as easy as it may seem.
Today, the class was instructed to get into pairs for a collaborative activity. The pairs would then be matched with another pair to make a group. There are about six students who are struggling or “behind”. These students decided to work together. No other pair or student was really willing to work with those students. Observing from the side lines I was so surprised. I saw this as an indirect way of creating a class hiearchy which separated the “high” and “low” students.
I could not help but think if the class climate was different would this still happen? Is it even the classroom climate or is it something else? How would I tackle this situation if I am faced with it in my practicum?
This is really difficult to observe. It is good that you are aware of the social difficulty of specific students in your classroom When you are teaching it is important to pair or group students yourself to help avoid these classroom interactions and the anxiety and sadness caused by them.