Adyghe State University's Innovative Approach to Classroom Management Training

Adyghe State University has initiated a program to teach students majoring in pedagogical fields the fundamentals of classroom management. This new discipline, titled "Technology and Organization of Educational Practices," is being offered in an innovative format—practical training conducted in a school setting. For the inaugural groups, MBOU "Lyceum No. 19" in Maikop was selected as the training venue.
 
A total of 39 students were the first to engage with this discipline.
 
Over a span of two months, these students attended the lyceum one to two times a week. Under the guidance of deputy directors and current class teachers, they crafted a monthly educational plan, learned how to conduct various events, and maintained accurate records. Additionally, sessions with an educational psychologist equipped them to manage anxiety before lessons and effectively implement team-building strategies with children. The students also developed materials for extracurricular activities, including "Conversations about the Important" and "Russia. My Horizons," and facilitated classes for schoolchildren of varied ages. After each lesson, they engaged in a reflective process alongside their mentor to assess what additional areas required focus.
 
The university's assessment of this subject was based on data derived from analysis cards completed by teachers who observed the classes delivered by the students. This practical experience enables students to understand both the challenges and successes of classroom management, as well as the critical role of educational work within the school environment.
 
- For the university, the priority is not solely the number of graduates in pedagogical fields, but also the quality of their professional training. At the same time, it is crucial to adapt to the constantly changing conditions. This discipline will provide students with the opportunity to acquire valuable skills and gain insights into current priorities in educational practices at schools, ultimately helping to reduce the risk of young teachers leaving the profession. Moreover, real-world practice allows students to witness the advantages of working in a school environment, to recognize how engaging it is, how rewarding it is to have children drawn to their class teacher, and to appreciate the significance of imparting new knowledge.- This was highlighted by Nadezhda Ilyinova, Director of the Educational Policy Department at ASU.
 
The ASU management holds high hopes for this training format. The next group of students will commence their studies on the principles of class management in this format in February.
 
It is worth noting that Adyghe State University has been training teachers for schools in the South of Russia for over 80 years. Currently, the university is implementing several projects aimed at alleviating the shortage of teachers in Adyghe schools.