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In the realm of education, discipline has traditionally been seen as a method of control, a way to maintain order in the classroom. However, in our recent online masterclass, Dr. Lori Desautels invited educators, psychologists, and social workers to shift their perspective. She spoke about a compassionate and scientifically-backed approach that views discipline not as a tool for control but as an opportunity for connection, understanding, and growth.
Lori Desautels, who researches and teaches educational neuroscience at Butler University in Indianapolis, challenges the conventional punitive measures often employed in schools. She emphasizes the importance of understanding the emotional and neurological needs of students. Discipline, in her view, should be a nurturing process, where the focus is on building relationships and understanding the individual needs of each child. This approach is rooted in the belief that behavior is a form of communication, especially in children who have experienced trauma or adversity.
Central to Dr. Desautels' philosophy is the role of the adult's nervous system in behavior management. She explains how adults are not just rule enforcers but are crucial in co-regulating the young nervous systems they interact with. This realization calls for educators and caregivers to be more attuned to their responses to misbehavior, understanding how these reactions can significantly impact a child's development and learning.
Trauma, Dr. Desautels points out, can profoundly affect a student's behavior and learning capabilities. Adverse experiences, especially at a young age, can disrupt the development of the brain, leading to difficulties in self-regulation, forming relationships, and academic performance. Recognizing this, she argues, is vital in addressing the root causes of disruptive behavior in students.
Lori Desautels introduces a framework for applied educational neuroscience that includes practical strategies for educators. This framework focuses on mindfulness, understanding brain states, fostering resilience, and creating supportive learning environments. She highlights the importance of creating a sense of safety in the classroom, as students' brains are continuously scanning the environment for threats. Strategies like establishing predictable routines, empathetic listening, and activities that promote co-regulation are essential in this process.
Drawing from her extensive experience in various educational settings, Dr. Desautels shares real-world examples and case studies. These stories demonstrate how shifts in adult behavior and the learning environment can lead to remarkable changes in student behavior. A key concept she introduces is 'relational wealth' – the idea of forming deep, positive connections with students, which serves as the bedrock for effective learning and discipline.
Lori Desautels urged professionals in education and mental health to reevaluate their approach to discipline. By understanding the neuroscientific underpinnings of behavior and responding empathetically to the needs of students, educators can foster nurturing, effective, and transformative learning environments.
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