What strategies do you implement in the classroom to build self-esteem and student respect for each other?

Question

What strategies do you implement in the classroom to build self-esteem and student respect for each other?

Answer 1

Here's a thought:  "buddy up" random students (have a student pick from a fishbowl) for a week, once a month.  They will have to "sponsor" each other and establish a bond, a loyal relationship, and get to know 20 things about them.  Essentially, become BFF's for a week.  Five of those 20 will be discussed at the end of the month on a day dedicated to people/students sharing their experiences with the experiment with the class.   Attach a grade to it in case they catch on ;-) (wink-wink).

I know, not as clever as pay it forward, but it's a great idea, and with your imagination, you can elaborate and fine tune it as you like.  

Also, regarding discipline and learning, check out Marvin Marshall's discipline without stress.  Off the topic here, but he's got some great ideas on how to elicit a "want to" attitude from kids rather than a "you'd better or else!" fear based incentive.

Answer 2

It starts from day 1. You lay down the law. You set the punishment and stick to it. Any "trash talk" will not be tolerated. Writing has ALWAYS been a great way to get points across, especially if its done in front of the class.  

Answer 3

Learning and the-exchange of ideas may take place in many settings. When students &faculty come together to make it a better place to learn and grown and to respect one other on school grounds. This it self makes learning fun and enjoyable by all that's what self-esteem should be about while learning also on a campus of young adults thanks

Answer 4

use praise yrself.

get them to praise each other appropriately-

if there is a put down- make them say 3 put ups.