Quality Components

Quality Components refer to the non-verbal communication we use when working with students. Things like your voice tone, facial features, stance, etc. are all quality components. When we are not keeping our quality components neutral, students will have stronger reactions in response to that, which can be good or bad. As educators, we want to emphasize neutral quality components because the hope is that the student internalizes their behavior, whereas if we are visibly "angry" the student will probably react to your anger instead of their behavior.

This doesn't mean you shouldn't show students emotion. Be happy for them. Be disappointed in their choices. Be proud of them. Be angry for their behavior. JUST DON'T SHOW THIS EMOTION DURING A RETEACHING MOMENT. These emotions are what make us human, but to best utilize them, use it during a more neutral time when the student can better reflect on their actions.

Below are some tips and reminders to help keep quality components in check!

1. Be a Dispassionate Cop.

How would you react to a speeding ticket if the officer came to the window and yelled, "What the heck were you doing? You have seen the speed limit signs? Why would you do that?" Most likely you would feel anger, annoyance, and more. How should students respond when our reaction is the same as the police officers?

Remember: Learning behavior is the same as learning a content. It takes practice, and everyone learns at different rates. The difference is, we expect students to share and understand norms and values. That isn't always the case. Be the dispassionate cop!

2. Try Silence

Try silence. This is especially helpful if you are an emotional person. As Dr. Friman stated, when you are reacting with emotion, you are justifying their behaviors!

TL;DR

Quality components matter! Watch how Ice Cube can make repeating simple, silly phrases seem like he is angry. Notice, the anger appears out of his facial features, voice tone, and hand gestures!