Understanding the Four Teaching Styles
Learn about the Different Styles of Classroom Management
Jul 31, 2009
There are four main types of teachers in the classrooms today. According to Dr. Phelan and Sarah Jane Schonour, M.A., in 1-2-3 Magic for Teachers [ParentMagic inc., 2004], there are authoritarian, permissive, detached and authoritative teachers. The type of teacher that one is will make a big difference in one's effectiveness in the classroom.
Authoritarian Teaching Style
The authoritarian teacher is often described by students as a screamer. This teacher expects children to obey and when they do not, this type of teacher has little management abilities beyond constant yelling at the students to get them back in line. Very little is allowed past this teacher as every little infraction is caught and disciplined. Students may obey this teacher but mostly out of fear, and the teacher will blame the discipline problems in class on the students.
Permissive Teaching Style
The permissive teacher is one who really just wants to be friends with her students. She may plead with students to raise their hand or follow other simple rules, but does not have a firm discipline plan in place. While students may say they like this type of teacher, when it comes down to a difficulty, students know that the teacher will not take care of a problem and will often try to take matters into their own hands as a result.
Detached Teaching Style
The detached teacher is one who really does not care. This teacher has become desensitized to the discipline problems and may not even care what kind of grades her students receive in class. She will sit behind her desk while students are working and grade papers during class or when on duty. There is no emotional support or behavioral management from the detached teacher. This teaching style is often the result of an illness or depression.
Authoritative Teaching Style
The authoritative teacher is one who has an orderly classroom, a strong discipline plan and is caring and supportive. Students respect this teacher and know that they can go to her with problems of any kind no matter how big or small. While this style of teaching is ideal, it can be difficult to achieve.
Teachers need to spend time regularly reviewing their teaching style. Knowing the difference between the authoritarian, permissive, detached and authoritative teaching styles will help teachers analyze their own teaching and focus on improving.
Read tips on setting goals for teacher improvement and other ways to improve one’s teaching style.
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