5. Teacher Student Interactions & Peer Modeling
In an effort to create a positive learning environment, teachers can address problematic classroom behaviors by
developing appropriate relationships with students that help them feel more comfortable in academic settings.
Lane, Pierson, Stang, & Carter (2010) examined teachers’ expectations of student behavior. The results reiterated
the importance of teacher student interactions. The researchers noted the importance of purposeful planning,
and building effective communication and suitable relationships in an effort to promote positive behavior
change at all grade levels. Suggestions for building appropriate teacher student relationships include talking to
student in concrete terms, balancing praise and corrective feedback, identifying alternatives to appropriate behaviors,
and understanding how cultural and linguistic differences impact peer and adult interactions in classroom
settings (Ford & Kea, 2009; Smith & Misra, 1992).
At times, teachers may find themselves directing critical remarks toward a particular student. Teachers should