Classroom leadership: Practice, theory and research

Skills in classroom leadership are the most important prerequisite for teachers to be successful in their work. Teaching and activity management are the core of the craft of teaching, and the goal is to create a good learning environment in which students can develop educationally and socially. Students are happiest and learn best in social contexts, and they have great need for contact with their fellow students. Therefore, one can expect a lively milieu at school. Disruption, restlessness and conflicts can arise when students are permitted influence and development in the classroom. At the same time, there is a need for a peaceful work environment and attention during class in order for students to have the opportunity to listen to the teacher and to one another, study a text, solve problems or quite simply work in peace.

The book provides an overview of research and disciplinary literature about classroom leadership. Principles of practice are described from different theoretical perspectives along with the research and experiences on which they are founded. Though there is widespread agreement that some principles work better than others, classroom leadership is also a question about which goals and values teachers prioritize. Teachers, students of education and others with an interest in the inner life of the school will find much material for debate, inspiration and afterthought here.