Australia’s national education evidence body
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Managing the classroom to maximise learning

Australian Professional Standards for Teachers | Focus Area 4.2: Manage classroom activities

Focused classrooms maximise students’ on-task learning time by minimising disruptive behaviour and disengagement. Research shows that students cannot learn as well in classrooms that lack consistency, have too many potential distractions or do not offer ample opportunities to engage. Teachers can create focused classrooms by implementing clear structures and routines, modelling appropriate behaviours, and actively engaging students in their learning. 

Evidence-based practices that create focused classrooms are listed below. Note that some of the examples offered may not apply in all contexts, may be more suitable for primary students than secondary students (and vice versa), and/or may look different in different content areas. Reasonable adjustments must be made where necessary to ensure full access and participation for students with disability.

Key practices

Further reading

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