The responsive classroom: A practical approach for bringing democratic ideals into the daily fabric of classroom life

Gimbert, B. (2002, September 1). The Responsive classroom: a practical approach for bringing democratic ideals into the daily fabric of classroom life. Retrieved from http://www.newhorizons.org/strategies/democratic/gimbert.htm

Summary:

This article summarizes “The Responsive Classroom” approach to an elementary context. Dr. Belinda Gimbert advocates the learning principles of this model because it incorporates character building curriculum within the context of a democratic classroom. The strategies underlying the Responsive Classroom are: morning meeting, rules and logical consequences, guided discovery, academic choice, classroom organization and family communication. While the Responsive Classroom has some ideas that may fit a secondary context, many of the examples used have to do with taking turns, making room in the circle for everyone and sharing supplies and snacks. While many middle schoolers do need guidance with these concepts, this article is more beneficial for elementary school teachers.

From the Text:

“If children are to truly learn what it means to be active member sof a democratic society, then these principles must become part of the working fabric of everyday classroom life” (Gimbert).

“Students must feel respected and be able to respect others. They must feel valued as individuals but understand the importance of their contributions to the group” (Gimbert).