Explain the ways in which you would establish ground rules with your learners, and which underpin behaviour and respect for others.
One of the first things to do with the students in the first session is to establish ground rules, not only regarding behaviour but expected behaviour whilst in the classroom. Setting ground rules can help establish boundaries for the group. After my introduction to the class is done, I would discuss the health and safety requirements, then have an icebreaker exercise. After this I would have a friendly, open conversation with the students. Utilising the flip chart or white board we would then all together start to form a list of ground rules. I would prompt them at this point and use my mobile phone as a prop and suggest that we all turn our phones onto silent. I would then ask the class what else they would include on the list and openly discuss it with the whole class. Allowing the learners to agree their own ground rules means they take ownership of them. If a ground rule is subsequently broken, it would usually be the learners who will reprimand each other before I need to. This list would contain politeness, respect, no food and drink, being punctual, returning from breaks on time, obeying the college or organisations rules and procedures, being willing and open to others and to learning and also not being afraid to contribute to discussions. Most of all though, accepting people for who they are, what they say and to help each other enjoy this learning experience.