Point #2 -- Clear Explanation of Rationale for Rules and Policies

In general, students tend to respond more cooperatively when they understand the logical reason or rationale for classroom rules. Very often, they also exhibit better compliance with rules that allow an appropriate measure of independent self-regulation instead of strict inflexible compliance. One example that struck me as useful is the explanation of why students must ask for permission to be excused to the restroom in conjunction with an acknowledgment that mature students need not necessarily request permission directly from the teacher. The technique that I learned in this respect is to explain why only one or two students may leave the room at a time in conjunction with the opportunity for self-regulation. Specifically, I will allow independent use of the hall key and I will emphasize that it is predicated on mature use without necessitating disrupting the class to...
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