When Teacher Experience Matters: Teacher Ratings of Student Defiance

• In Event: Innovations in Teaching, Classroom Management, Learning Environments, and Culturally Responsive Communities

Abstract

Student behavior plays a critical role in the climate and learning environment of a classroom. Research findings have shown that high rates of school misbehavior lowered academic achievement and increased delinquent behavior for all students (Bryant, 2000). Moreover, teachers tend to perceive African American students are having more problematic behaviors (e.g., defiance). Using ordinary least squares (OLS) regression, we examined how teachers characteristics systematically influence these disparities. Our results suggest that suggest that as teachers gain more experience teaching, they tend to rate their students as being less defiant. This has implications for how we support and collaborate with newer teachers to create positive classroom culture and foster meaningful relationships with all students.

Authors

• JImmy Hernandez, Brigham Young University

• Elisse n Newey, Brigham Young University

• David M Simpson, Brigham Young University