Some Simple and Yet Overlooked Common Sense Tips For A More Effective Classroom Environment

Journal of Instructional Psychology, June, 1999 by Joseph S.C. Simplicio

This concept is indeed somewhat radical in nature. Some would argue that it is much too time consuming and individually based. However, in the end, it does better serve to fulfill the major tenets of many of the sound educational theories that good educators espouse.

Finally, when teachers test, and test they will, it is essential that they utilize the best evaluate tools available. Research has shown that certain test constructions are more reliable than others. In constructing examinations teachers must avoid obviously flawed testing structures. For example, except in carefully designed exceptions, the use of fill in questions or cross matching sections with even number entries are not effective ways to determine student understanding. Even the old true and false format should be utilized with caution. In addition to yielding unreliable evaluations, these tests designs only require reliance on rote memory, and do little to foster the development of critical thinking skills.

In the final analysis, testing should not be a series of one shot opportunities given within specific time intervals, in which students are placed in a win or lose situation. Instead, if teachers are truly interested in understanding how effective their teaching is, and just how much their students are learning, then testing philosophies must change to better reflect these concerns.

A Final Thought

To the experienced educators who read this article many of the ideas expressed read like a checklist of common accepted practices. These teachers should take the time to revisit such old friends and work to develop effective strategies to better implement them yet once again into their classes. For the new teacher, these simple ideas were designed to help you as you make your way along the path to becoming a good teacher. Both the seasoned professional and the youngest neophyte are welcome to utilize, modify, or build on any, or all, of what has been offered here.

Joseph S. C. Simplicio, Ph.D., Education Department, Caldwell College, Caldwell, New Jersey.

Correspondence concerning this article should be addressed to Dr. Joseph S. C. Simplicio, P.O. Box 877, New Monmouth, New Jersey 07748.