Tips for creating a safe classroom environment
In order to truly reach out to students, a safe and healthy environment for the classroom must be implemented. Students thrive when they feel comfortable and this make it easier for teachers to do their jobs. Making sure that the students are cooperative, open minded and respectful will make the process of teaching sexual education easier.
Make the class aware of the need for fairness and equality
Students need to be supportive towards one another and any negative remarks, attitudes, or actions need to be banned in the classroom. Bullying is a problem in many schools and discussions on sexual health can increase the chances if equality and fairness are not respected.
Clarify expectations before beginning the class; ground rules are necessary to keep the class from getting out of hand.
Remind the students at the beginning of each class to follow your rules during the entirety of the class. Teach the class how to address situations that become inappropriate.
Use scientific terms; ban slang in discussions
Not only are slang terms unsuitable for learning and understanding of the subject, but they also can be taken as sexual harassment and that is serious no matter intended or not. Respect towards the material, teachers, and students is a must.
01
02
03
Address discrimination and make homophobia, racism, sexism, and bisexuality a topic to respect.
Before beginning a discussion, speak to the students about the need for sensitivity, non-judgemental attitudes and the lack of tolerance towards discrimination. A student should feel safe in class and should not be afraid to be open in discussions as it severely benefits the education for the entire class.
04
Avoid gender specific language.
He/She and Him/Her should be avoided to respect each gender in order not to offend or misinform students about certain genders. This also is important when in regard to any transgender students who may feel left out or embarrassed being grouped.
05
