Ground Rules

Ground Rules can be seen as a code of practice both for teachers and students. They help create suitable working conditions and maintain a safe environment. Problems may arise if they are not set and could lead to a disruption in overall learning.

It is best to outline ground rules from the onset to avoid confusion and interruptions. This could be at the start of term or after an icebreaker in a shorter course. Encouraging learners to set the rules themselves in small groups could help create a sense of ownership and responsibility.

The following examples are based on a group discussion at the start of a semester in a local college.

Punctuality and Attendance

Teachers may often set the bar at 100% attendance for their courses. This seems high but is achievable and can be rewarded at the end of a term / year. Naturally a variety of reasons in life may throw this off course, but aiming for the highest can only help in the learning process. Students may come up with this figure and try their best to get as close to it as possible.

Respect Opinions

Lessons can get heated as people will have a wealth of opinions on different subject matters. This can spark good debate, but will need to be controlled to prevent discussions from escalating out of control. Ground rules could state that only one person speaks at a time and that no one shouts or uses inappropriate language.

Food and Drink

The rustling of packaging and chewing could easily annoy people in close confines and disrupt a lesson Without rules any type of food could be eaten, which could smell and lead to an uncomfortable environment.

Ground rules could limit eating and drinking to break times or outside of the room. Rules don't always need to be negative. It could just be a case of ‘please eat and drink outside of the room, thanks’.

Mobile Phones

Mobile phones are a big distraction so it is important to establish rules from the outset. this could be to have them switched off or on silent. Teachers may show compassion by outlining that important calls should be answered outside of the room to ensure a minimum level of disruption.