Cyber Bullying Prevention Saves Lives

Illustration of a phone attacking a child to
represent the intensity of cyber-bullying

In an age where technology is at the fingertips of almost anyone around us, miss-uses of technology are bound to happen. One example being cyber-bullying. According to a reputable source, "cyber-bullying involves the use of information and communication technologies such as email, cell phone, and pager text messages, instant messages... to support deliberate, repeated, and hostile behavior by an individual or group, that is intended to harm others," (Keith and Martin). This type of bullying can occur over various technology platforms. Bullies hide behind the safe-net of their screens, often making the bullying even more intense. As schools continue to promote and integrate technology into education, it is important for them to understand and recognize cyber-bullying. Teachers must be prepared to teach students about cyber-bullying, how to prevent it, and what to do if they witness it. The reason this is such an important task for teachers is that cyber-bullying has huge implications. It can, and has ruined people's lives and driven them into serious mental-health states of concern. Because it is preventable, it is important for educators to be aware and take action against cyber-bullying.

I can recall my first recognized experience of cyber-bullying in just fourth grade. I was the victim of an attack made in a group chat that my peers did not think I was in. They said horrible things and made me feel small and unable to defend myself. Having words on a page made their words so hurtful and so easy to go back to over and over. As a leader for a high school ministry, I see cyber-bullying happen constantly, and have seen it shatter the hearts of high schoolers. Teenagers can easily say the most horrible things that they would never say to someone's face. I believe that cyber-bullying is one of the most urgent things for teachers to be trained in at this time. Education of cyber-bullying has the opportunity to save, and make lives so much better. 

Classroom Management: The most critical factor of successful learning

Good classroom management allows students to work 
collaboratively away from their desks as pictured here.

No one wants to be in a classroom where the teacher is constantly flustered, unorganized, and unable to retain student focus. Chances are, you have been in this type of learning environment, and chances are, you did not enjoy it. These are the unfortunate realities of classrooms of teachers that neglect to practice classroom management strategies. Classroom management is an effective way to engage with and meet the needs of students. It provides an opportunity for academic engagement from students by first creating a positive learning environment. Learning and growth of students is fostered through a certain level of organization from teachers. Classroom management allows teachers to be prepared at all times to always keep students engaged even when things do not go according to plan. It is important for teachers to learn how to effectively manage a classroom so not to lead to stress and burnout. When teachers feel like they do not have control of their classroom, they want to quit. The retention rate of new teachers is extremely low compared to other professions, likely due to the lack of understanding of classroom management. This is why classroom management is such a crucial part of teaching. 

Classroom management is something I have seen done really well and really poorly. When I think about my favorite teachers growing up, I think about the ones that always had a plan, gave clear instructions, and catered to what we needed as students. A class full of students of any age is hard to manage, but I admire the teachers that could recognize how students were feeling, and adjust their plans accordingly. I did not think much of it as a student, but thinking about when teachers were able to troubleshoot because of technology or other challenges, I recognize how difficult this can be and have a new appreciation for their classroom managing skills. Their ability to retain our focus and remain calm in stressful situations are qualities that made my learning more successful. I hope that through educating myself on classroom management techniques, that I can become skilled in this field like the teachers I admire so much.