Unfortunately, many students come to school without ANY social training! Thus, in order for the teacher to have success in the classroom, he/she MUST teach social skills. Without social skills, the classroom is uncontrollable. A teacher cannot expect students to DO something they’ve never been taught to do.

2. What is the difference between autocratic, permissive, and democratic classrooms?

• Autocratic - Teachers rule by WILL. They want to be the sole controller of the classroom, and all students must abide by what they say. The students are not involved in decision making, or rule construction. The teacher has the ONLY say in what happens in this type of classroom. They truly believe that power is the best tool for managing student behavior.
• Permissive - These teachers do not provide the students with any type of guidance. These teachers operate in constant confusion, and basically "fly by the seat of their pants" each and every day. If it feels good at the moment, they do it. There is no consistency, and a lot of confusion.
• Democratic - These teachers involve the students in all aspects of the classroom. The students help to make the rules, the help others to follow the rules, and they decide what is best for their classroom. These teachers share power with their students.

5. What are some specific social skills that comprise self-control?

Student resists temptation

Student makes proper use of all materials given

The student establishes self-control spontaneously

Student tolerates frustration

• ASSESSMENT OF SOCIAL REALITY

Is aware of and anticipates consequences

Evaluates how his/her behavior effects others

Appreciates feelings

Accepts praise and affection

Takes care of own belongings

• MANAGE GROUP PRESSURE

Resists group conflict

Controls self under peer pressure

Adapts to the idea of competition

Participates in groups activities

• STRESS MANAGEMENT

Copes with anxiety

Controls feelings from the past

Adapts to new situations

Relaxes

• SOLVE SOCIAL PROBLEMS

Is aware of disruptive behavior

Learns from experience

Draws inferences from others’ experiences

Resolves conflicts

6. What problem solving steps would you follow to develop a social skills program for a specific student?

In designing a social skills program for students, the teacher must always remember that each child is an individual, and has unique needs. Some guidelines for doing this include:

• Determine whether or not the program actually teaches proper social behavior.
• Is this curriculum appropriate for meeting the needs of the students involved?
• Does this curriculum teach the social skills in which your students are deficient?
• Is training provided in situations as well as skills?
• Are the instructional methodologies used appropriate for your students?