Classroom Management and the Vital Role of the Classroom Teacher: Insights from Distance Teaching Experiences

Abstract

A class is a group of pupils who need someone to lead them. The adult leader of such a group is called the class teacher. The class teacher's main responsibility is to manage the class effectively. This includes creating a positive and supportive learning environment in which pupils can develop both academically and socially. Classroom management involves setting clear expectations, establishing routines, and fostering a culture of respect and cooperation among pupils. In addition, classroom teachers are not only educators but also mentors who guide students towards personal growth and academic success. A qualified classroom teacher understands the individual needs of each student and adapts his or her teaching approach accordingly. The impact of a dedicated classroom teacher on students is remarkable. Through their consistency, responsibility, and commitment, they inspire students to become responsible and engaged learners themselves. This research was conducted at the Secondary Vocational and Technical School for Mechanical Engineering. A total of 23 classroom teachers took part in the survey. We found that during the distance learning all class teachers used the Zoom and MS Teams platforms, but they also used traditional approaches such as telephone calls. The biggest problem that arose in distance learning was the unresponsiveness of parents. In such cases, the school counsellor and relevant guidance centres can be consulted on the pupil's progress as they have more resources and information.