The Continuous Improvement Classroom

Ground Rules

Ground rules created by students

Classroom mission

statements

Classroom and student

measurable goals

Quality tools and PDSA used regularly

The Continuous

Improvement Classroom

Classroom data centers

Classroom meetings

facilitated by students

Student-led conferences

Student data folders

What are the reasons why we would want to involve students in creating classroom ground rules?

Discuss Expectations• What do students expect of:

– the school?– the class?– themselves?– the teacher

• It is important for students to know what to expect so they know what they should / could be improving on

• Expectations lay the foundation for: ground rules, mission statements and goal setting

• CI is really affecting my learning in a positive way. It makes me determined because I know there is a goal.

• Student

Expectations: What is a Quality Kid?

Example: Ground Rules

• Any teacher anywhere should be able to say, “Line Basics” or “Body Basics” and have the students follow these rules.

Ground Rules• Provides opportunity for student

ownership and responsibility

• Serve as the standard for behavior by which all agree to follow

• Reduces potential behavior problems because students developed the ground rules and are more likely to follow them

Ground Rules – Purpose?• Build a climate of trust • Create an atmosphere for open

communication• Emphasize the importance of listening

with respect and acceptance• Help the class meet classroom goals and

follow the agreed upon mission statement• Result = Increased communication, risk-

taking and productivity

Ground Rules - Process?• Established together with all students

participating - – This allows for ownership

of the process

• Tools– Brainstorm– Affinity Diagram– Nominal Group

Technique

What Do They Look Like?

• Everyone participates

• Listen to each other

• One person speaks at a time

• Take turns

• Respect others opinions

Process

The Affinity Diagram being used to make

Ground Rules

Affinity Diagrams

• You know how when you walk into a classroom for the first time, your new teacher gives you your assigned seats and then you unpack your school supplies into your desk. After that, they tell you their class rules and the consequences for breaking them. Then they tell you what they expect for your goal for the rest of the year. When I walked into Mrs. Thompson's class it was different, we got to make the rules for ourselves and determined what our goals are for the trimester. Mrs. Thompson treats us like adults, we get our own say about what we do.

• Student

At Your Table…• Create ground rules for your table • Your ground rules will determine

boundaries and expectations as you interact together during training

• Don’t forget to use the 3 Power Tools– Brainstorm– Affinity Diagram– Nominal Group Technique

Create your table’s ground rules!

Be sure to review them before all group activities and at the beginning and end of the day!

Journal Writing… What is your plan to involve students in the

creation of classroom

ground rules?