Assertive Discipline: A Review of One Program for the Classroom Teacher

When teachers are asked what their biggest challenge is in the classroom many will respond by saying "classroom management." Classroom management has many different facets, one of which is discipline or behavior management. There are many different theories and ideas about how a teacher should go about discipline in his or her classroom. The assertive discipline model is used by many today.

Lee and Marlene Canter are responsible for the assertive discipline program. They are known throughout the nation for their work in the fields of education and parenting. They have shown thousands of educators and parents how to raise happy families and responsible children through their assertive discipline model. This program is the most widely used packaged behavior management program today.

What are the big ideas behind assertive discipline? With this program students are expected to behave regardless of any individual differences. The key to this model is catching children behaving appropriately rather than inappropriately. The teacher has the right to determine what is best for his or her students and compliance is expected. This behavior management program should be published to the students, principal, and parents. Teachers using this model believe that a firm, teacher-in-charge classroom is what's best for the students. They also believe that the students want their behavior to be directed by the teacher. An important part of this model is to also have a few clearly stated classroom rules, which are posted and give clear and concise directions to the students in need of outside direction. Students who comply with the rules are to be reinforced, while students who disobey receive negative consequences. Teachers using assertive discipline in their classrooms build positive, trusting relationships with their students. They teach appropriate behavior through direct instruction, listen to what students have to say, speak respectfully to class members, and treat all students fairly though not necessarily equally. These ideas are a basic summary of what the assertive discipline program is all about.