Traye Pelzer

Edu 218
Mr. Duea
April 19, 2015
Classroom Management
This paper will describe which of the four theories on classroom
management most closely reflects the habits that I will try to employ in
my future classroom. The four theories are Behavior Modification,
Choice Theory, Assertive Discipline, and beyond Discipline.
Out of the four theories on classroom management I most closely
agree with the theory of Assertive Discipline from Canter. It states that
a controlled and prosperous learning environment can be attained
through a strict and efficient teacher. This definition does not mean
that the teacher can not be fun or easy going, but rather that they are
aware of what is going on in the classroom and react quickly to
anything that throws this normality in jeopardy. I believe that knowing
the state of your students and being able to react to a disciplinary
problem quickly and effectively not only discourages future disciplinary
problems but, eliminates distractions in the learning environment. This
theory overlaps with behavior modification by employing the positive
and negative reinforcement, which most closely defines behavior
modification. The difference between the two is the employment of
enforcement, positive or negative, through clearly defined rules and an
in-control authority guiding those actions. I also see benefits from
Choice Theory and the need for students to have belonging in the
classroom. That being said Choice Theory does not believe in

Traye Pelzer
Edu 218
Mr. Duea
April 19, 2015
reinforcement of behaviors due to their rewarding/bribing nature. Due
to this I would like my future classroom to most clearly reflect that of a
classroom with a strong authoritative figure who has defined the rules
for their classroom. This nature discourages actions that distract from
the learning environment while also providing rewards based on high
achievement and good conduct. Providing this safe learning
environment will open the door to success for students and lead to a
prosperous time in the classroom without the loss of time when dealing
with disciplinary problems.
I most clearly resonate with the thoughts of Canter and Assertive
Discipline, while seeing the benefits of the finer points of the other
theories in the classroom. A strong and fair teacher is necessary to
create a lucrative learning environment, and is essential when
considering class conduct.