This abstract describes the concept of belonging and its importance in the classroom setting. The author explains that belonging refers to the sense of connection and identification an individual feels with a group or community and highlights the positive effects of feeling a sense of belonging on mental and physical health, self-concept, and purpose. The author goes on to explain how belonging in a classroom setting can lead to increased engagement, participation, and positive relationships among students and teachers, as well as improved academic performance and mental and emotional well-being. The author also notes that a sense of belonging in the classroom can foster a sense of community and mutual respect among students, leading to a more harmonious and productive learning environment.
Moderate Concept Summary: Self Actualization
ED 304: Ed Psych and Human Development
Author: Ashlyn Wilhelm
Validated by: (Wilhelm, 1/16/23)
Disclosure: ChatGPT3 and Consensus. app was used in the creation of this resource.
Summary:
- Belonging refers to the sense of connection and identification that an individual feels with a particular group or community. It encompasses feelings of acceptance, inclusion, and identification with others who share similar values, beliefs, or experiences. When an individual feels a sense of belonging, they are more likely to have a positive self-concept, better mental and physical health, and a sense of purpose and meaning in their life.
- Belonging is essential in a classroom as it helps to create a positive and inclusive learning environment for all students. When students feel like they belong in the classroom, they are more likely to engage with the material, participate in class discussions, and form positive relationships with their classmates and teachers. When students feel like they are part of the classroom community, they are more likely to take risks, ask questions, and share their ideas, which in turn can lead to deeper learning and personal growth.
- Moreover, when students feel like they belong in the classroom, they are more likely to attend school regularly and have better academic performance, as well as better mental and emotional well-being. A sense of belonging can help students feel more motivated, confident, and less anxious, which can lead to better academic outcomes and more positive social interactions. Additionally, a sense of belonging in the classroom can also help foster a sense of community and mutual respect among students, which can lead to a more harmonious and productive learning environment.
Teacher connections:
As a future educator, I want my students to feel comfortable to be themselves and ask questions in class. I think this is the most important way for children to learn and grow. Building a community and giving children a sense of belonging will leave learning with a positive connotation for the future.
References and further reading:
This is a great article because it goes into depth about the importance of students belonging in a classroom:
Why-is-it-important-for-students-to-feel-a-sense-of-belonging-at-school-students-choose-to-be-in-environments-that-make-them-feel-a-sense-of-fit-says-associate-professor-deleon-gra
This article further talks about what belonging entails:
Sense-of-belonging
Questions:
Which of the following is not a factor that contributes to a sense of belonging in a classroom?
a) Positive relationships with classmates and teachers
b) Feeling comfortable expressing oneself
c) Having access to the latest technology
d) Feeling understood and respected
How can a teacher create an inclusive environment in the classroom?
a) By ignoring cultural differences
b) By promoting mutual respect and understanding among students
c) By only focusing on academic performance
How can a sense of belonging in the classroom be measured?
a) By the number of friends a student has
b) By the level of engagement and participation in class