Proceedings of the 6th Global Conference on Education and Teaching
Year: 2024
DOI:
[PDF]
Managing Discipline Problems in ESL/EFL Classrooms: A Review of Strategies and Challenges
Lhoussine Qasserras
ABSTRACT:
Classroom discipline is a critical aspect of teaching in ESL/EFL settings, directly impacting student engagement, academic performance, and the overall learning environment. This review explores the common discipline issues in ESL/EFL classrooms, including disruptive behavior, lack of motivation, cultural conflicts, and language barriers. It contrasts teacher-centered and student-centered approaches to discipline, highlighting the advantages and limitations of each. The review emphasizes the importance of culturally responsive classroom management, where understanding students’ cultural backgrounds and promoting positive teacher-student relationships can minimize discipline issues. Specific management techniques, such as setting clear rules, using positive reinforcement, and incorporating behavior contracts, are examined. The challenges of addressing discipline, particularly language barriers, large class sizes, and insufficient teacher training, are also discussed. The review concludes by advocating for the integration of classroom management training into professional development programs, to better equip ESL/EFL teachers to handle discipline problems in diverse and multilingual classrooms.
keywords: Classroom management, ESL/EFL discipline, Teacher-centeredness, Culture, motivation