A Cycle of Conflict in the Classroom - Education Essay Sample

James, a special needs child, is a student at Mitchell Elementary School. He has a communication disorder and prefers having his personal space. Diane, on the other hand, is a teacher who seems to dislike James and wants him transferred from her class. As a result, she refuses to follow advice given on how to maintain a positive relationship with James. In addition, she almost physically hurt him in an incident where she sat him down forcefully that he almost hit his head on a brick wall.

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Connie, the school counselor, supports the teachers whenever they have problems with the students. She is experienced in dealing with special needs children. Ms. Knight and Ms. Alton are both considerate individuals who want whats best for the teachers and students. This is why they are actively looking for a solution to the escalating conflict between James and his teacher.

The actions of James are being motivated by his teacher who does not want to apply ethics in managing his behavior. She is knowingly engaging in activities that irritate James, hence causing him to act out. The actions of Diane, on the other hand, may be motivated by the fact that she got off on the wrong foot with James. Hence, it is possible that she just does not like the boy. Connie does not support the decision to enroll James in EH as she knows how difficult it will be for him to adjust to a new environment. Also, she has already identified that Diane is knowingly triggering aggressive behavior so as to result in his transfer.

This case has two main issues. First, there is evidence of unethical classroom behavior management as showcased by Ms. Diane. Second, there is conflict between James and his teacher due to his behavioral problems.

Connies method of consulting with Diane was not effective. Despite taking note that Diane was knowingly causing James to act out, she did not confront her about this. Hence, the underlying issue to the problem was not being dealt with. Instead of dictating to her what should be done, Connie should have educated Diane more by also explaining advantages of the various actions she should take.

It is realistic to think that a teacher will be able to connect effectively with every student. This is because the teacher is a professional who has the skills and knowledge to enable him or her to encourage positive relationships with students. With the help of these skills, a teacher should be able to act in ways that a troubled student can positively respond to. These are the factors that are taught during teaching practice.

I do not think that James should be placed in a EH classroom as he is not the one with the problem. Although he is a special needs child, his behavior is not purely uncontrollable. On the contrary, it is his teacher Diane who has a problem as she seems to be engaging in the exact actions that she knows will irritate James.

If I was in this situation, I would approach Diane by asking her what she does not like about the student, but in a positive manner. This would help her to open up about what is really causing the conflict. She would also feel valued, and not victimized. I would then encourage her to try her best to make amends and give James a second chance.