Using Asynchronous Discussions to Teach Classroom Management Skills in Online Teacher Preparation Courses

Abstract

Classroom management is a vital skill for all teachers. Special education teacher educators are tasked with ensuring that teacher candidates are prepared to implement evidence-based practices for the prevention and intervention of challenging behaviors. Many teacher candidates are taking their coursework in an asynchronous online format, which likely includes the use of discussion boards. In this article, we offer suggestions for using four discussion board formats to support teacher candidates in learning classroom management skills. These effective discussion board formats are (a) sharing products that students have created, (b) video-based discussions, (c) jigsaw discussions, and (d) debates. When high quality discussion boards are integrated into asynchronous online courses, student learning and engagement will increase, therefore, creating higher quality preparation programs.