Through my master's program at Michigan State University, I worked on an Action Research Project. My research question was, “How can we strengthen student relationships in our classroom through teaching social, communication and conflict resolution skills and strategies?”

​

I implemented a "Skills & Strategies Hour" into our schedule 1-2 times each week. I took the time to explicitly teach various skills and strategies that would help us solve problems within our classroom. Students learned how to use a problem solving wheel, how to differentiate between and small and big problem, how to make and maintain friendships, how to take kind actions, how to show appreciation, how to effectively communicate, and how to give and receive compliments. 

​

Students get so excited when they see our "Skills & Strategies Hour" on the daily schedule. I can truly feel the difference in our classroom community since I began explicitly teaching these skills and strategies. Students are beginning to use them more independently. Relationships have been strengthening and our classroom community feels closer than ever. 

​

​