Conflict Management--Setting the Tone for School Safety.
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| Title: | Conflict Management--Setting the Tone for School Safety. |
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| Language: | English |
| Authors: | Cook, James |
| Peer Reviewed: | N |
| Page Count: | 9 |
| Publication Date: | 1995 |
| Document Type: | Speeches/Meeting Papers Reports - Evaluative Guides - Non-Classroom |
| Descriptors: | Conflict Resolution, Educational Environment, Elementary Secondary Education, Intervention, Organizational Climate, Problem Solving, Program Development, School Safety, Social Control, Student Participation, Violence |
| Geographic Terms: | U.S.; California |
| Abstract: | Unsafe conditions in schools impede student learning. This paper describes how an effective conflict-management program can help to create a safe school environment. Such a program should be considered essential to an overall school-safety plan, not regarded as an adjunct to the plan. An effective conflict-management program gives students a feeling of true ownership; utilizes a proactive approach based on a shared vision; and focuses on the problem, rather than a person's character. The program relies on student input, which can take the form of student-run courts, and promotes school pride, which can be developed through an orientation program. Five keys for establishing a conflict-management program are: (1) procure faculty support and involvement; (2) select student leaders from all groups to serve as conflict managers; (3) provide comprehensive, hands-on training; (4) conduct regular supervision and evaluation; and (5) designate a dynamic and public-relations-oriented director. Common obstacles include a lack of respect, the abuse of class time, and the lack of adequate supervision. Steps in initiating a conflict-management program include conducting a needs-assessment survey, a faculty presentation, training, school education, and an opening day. (LMI) |
| Notes: | Paper presented at the Winter Symposium of the California League of Middle Schools and California League of High Schools (San Leandro, CA, January 1995). |
| Journal Code: | RIEJAN1996 |
| Entry Date: | 1996 |
| Accession Number: | ED385905 |
| Database: | ERIC |
| Abstract: | Unsafe conditions in schools impede student learning. This paper describes how an effective conflict-management program can help to create a safe school environment. Such a program should be considered essential to an overall school-safety plan, not regarded as an adjunct to the plan. An effective conflict-management program gives students a feeling of true ownership; utilizes a proactive approach based on a shared vision; and focuses on the problem, rather than a person's character. The program relies on student input, which can take the form of student-run courts, and promotes school pride, which can be developed through an orientation program. Five keys for establishing a conflict-management program are: (1) procure faculty support and involvement; (2) select student leaders from all groups to serve as conflict managers; (3) provide comprehensive, hands-on training; (4) conduct regular supervision and evaluation; and (5) designate a dynamic and public-relations-oriented director. Common obstacles include a lack of respect, the abuse of class time, and the lack of adequate supervision. Steps in initiating a conflict-management program include conducting a needs-assessment survey, a faculty presentation, training, school education, and an opening day. (LMI) |
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