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Implementing Jane Nelsen's Positive Classroom Discipline Model in my Classroom
Gilbert Boakye
Department of Education, University of the People
EDUC 5240-01 Creating Positive Classroom Environments - AY2024-T3
Dr. Tiffany Knight
February 11, 2024
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Introduction
If I were to apply a discipline theory in my own classroom, I would lean towards Jane
Nelsen's "Positive Classroom Discipline" approach (About Positive Discipline, 2021). This
theory focuses on fostering mutual respect, cooperation, and responsibility within the classroom
environment (About Positive Discipline, 2021). I choose this theory because it aligns with my
belief in creating a supportive and empowering classroom environment where students feel
valued and motivated to take ownership of their behavior and learning (Monteiro et al., 2021 &
StoneVistaMedia, 2019).
Positive Discipline, pioneered by Dr. Jane Nelsen, is a program rooted in the principles of
Alfred Adler and Rudolf Dreikurs (About Positive Discipline, 2021). It aims to cultivate
responsibility, respect, and resourcefulness in young individuals, guiding them to become
valuable members of their communities (About Positive Discipline, 2021). This approach teaches
crucial social and life skills in a profoundly respectful and supportive manner, benefiting both
children and adults, including parents, educators, childcare providers, youth workers, and others
(About Positive Discipline, 2021).
Challenges of the Model
One possible challenge in implementing this philosophy could be resistance from
students who are accustomed to more traditional discipline methods (Traditional Disciplinary
Consequences | Student Engagement Project | Nebraska, n.d.) or who may initially perceive the
approach as lenient. Additionally, maintaining consistency in applying positive discipline
techniques can require significant effort and patience, especially when dealing with diverse
student personalities and behavioral challenges.
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Solutions to Challenges
To overcome these challenges, I would do the following
Provide Clear Expectations: Establish clear and consistent expectations for behavior
from the outset, and communicate them effectively to students and parents (Sword,
2023). By ensuring everyone understands the standards for conduct in the classroom, it
becomes easier to hold students accountable for their actions.
Model Positive Behavior: Lead by example by modeling the behavior I expect from my
students, because children learn through observation (Drew, 2024). Demonstrating
respect, empathy, and patience in my interactions with students can help set the tone for a
positive classroom culture (Drew, 2024).
Build Relationships: Invest time in building strong relationships with each student based
on trust (Burns, 2022), empathy, and mutual respect (Ministry of Education, New
Zealand, 2019). By understanding their individual needs and motivations, I can better
address behavioral issues in a constructive manner.
Provide Support and Guidance: Offer support and guidance to students who may be
struggling with behavior management by implementing proactive strategies such as
social- emotional learning activities, conflict resolution skills training, and individualized
behavior plans (Bambara & Kern, 2021).
Involve Students in Decision Making: Involve students in the decision-making process
regarding classroom rules, consequences, and problem-solving (Yussif, 2023). By
empowering them to take ownership of their behavior and contribute to the classroom
community, they are more likely to adhere to positive discipline practices.
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Continuous Professional Development: Continuously seek opportunities for
professional development and training (Joy, 2021) in positive discipline techniques to
enhance my skills and effectiveness as an educator.
Should I get the opportunity of being in the classroom again, I envision creating a
nurturing and inclusive environment where students feel valued, supported, and motivated to
learn. Through collaborative problem-solving, open communication, and mutual respect, I
believe this approach can contribute to a positive and conducive learning atmosphere for all
students.
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References
About positive discipline. (2021, March 14). Dr. Jane Nelsen.
https://www.positivediscipline.com/about-positive-discipline
Monteiro, V., Carvalho, C., & Santos, N. N. (2021). Creating a supportive classroom
environment through effective feedback: effects on students’ school identification and
behavioral engagement. Frontiers in Education, 6.
https://doi.org/10.3389/feduc.2021.661736
StoneVistaMedia. (2019, November 10). Jane Nelsen Presentation [Video]. YouTube.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8_h44xFO12U
Traditional Disciplinary Consequences | Student Engagement Project | Nebraska. (n.d.).
https://k12engagement.unl.edu/traditional-disciplinary-consequences
Sword, R. (2023, October 2). How to set behaviour expectations in the classroom. The Hub |
High Speed Training. https://www.highspeedtraining.co.uk/hub/how-to-set-behaviour-
expectations-in-the-classroom/
Drew, D. C. a. P. R. B. C. (2024, January 3). Behavior Modeling: Theory & Examples (2024).
Helpful Professor. https://helpfulprofessor.com/behavior-modeling-theory-examples/
Burns, A. (2022, August 22). Building Trust with Students—Even Before Class Starts. Harvard
Business Publishing. https://hbsp.harvard.edu/inspiring-minds/building-trust-with-
students-even-before-class-starts
Ministry of Education, New Zealand. (2019, November 18). Build relationships with students
based on trust and mutual respect. Inclusive Education.
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https://inclusive.tki.org.nz/guides/behaviour-and-learning/build-relationships-with-
students-based-on-trust-and-mutual-respect/
Bambara, L. M., & Kern, L. (2021). Individualized Supports for Students with Problem
Behaviors: Designing Positive Behavior Support Plans. . . ResearchGate.
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/350640625_Individualized_Supports_for_Stude
nts_with_Problem_Behaviors_Designing_Positive_Behavior_Support_Plans_Second_Ed
ition
Yussif. (2023, July 19). 17 Ways to Involve students in making classroom Rules - Classroom
Management expert. Classroom Management Expert.
https://classroommanagementexpert.com/blog/17-ways-to-involve-students-in-making-
classroom-rules/
Joy, K. (2021, May 20). Implementing effective professional development for teachers |
Cambridge. Brighter Thinking Blog | Cambridge University Press.
https://www.cambridge.org/it/education/blog/2021/05/13/how-to-implement-effective-
professional-development-for-teachers/
