| How can teachers develop a better understanding of behaviour in ethnic minority pupils? |
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Research taster
In schools that have successfully integrated pupils from a range of ethnic minorities teachers have created an ethos of respect for individuals and cultural groups. The teachers in these schools have developed behavioural policies, in conjunction with parents and pupils, which are open, fair and reflect and respect the diversity of their pupils. 
Your evidence
As a teacher it is important to take the time to reflect on your own personal views and attitudes, to consider how these can influence inclusion in your classroom. You might find it productive to make a list of feelings you hold towards different behaviours in your class and school, such as pupils sharing, shouting out, fighting etc. Identify the things that you think are important and those which give you cause for concern. Divide your list into two areas: those which relate to pupil behaviour, such as swearing, litter, table manners etc. and those which relate to pupil attitude, such as respect for others, motivation to learn, self-esteem etc. Do the two lists show you anything interesting about your feeling towards actions and behaviours? Consider from the lists what is most important to you and alternatively what is most important to your school. Moving forward Consider (perhaps with a colleague) how the items on the list relate to your personal value system. Have the views or actions of other people had an influence on the strength with which you hold these values? To develop from your initial reflections about pupil behaviour, you might like to focus on a behaviour of ethnic minority pupils in your class which you do not fully understand. In what way could you engage with new information or a deeper understanding of the reasons for these pupil behaviours? Seek further information from colleagues, parents and pupils to gain a better understanding. Find out more  You can find out more about successful teaching strategies in multi-ethnic schools on the GTC’s Research of the Month website:http://www.gtce.org.uk/research/romtopics/rom_inclusion/difference1/ A range of interesting studies into inclusion can be found on the TRIPS website: http://www.standards.dfes.gov.uk/research/themes/inclusion/?digest=all |
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