Student Voices on Classroom Disruptions: "Nobody Can Concentrate for 90 Minutes Straight"
Classroom disruptions don't just bother teachers. We asked two male students and one female student how noise affects their learning, what teachers do about it, and what measures they themselves consider useful.
Based on an article originally published by Sandra Hermes on Deutsches Schulportal, March 26, 2025
The reason for the side conversations is simply that the lesson is boring, says Emir-Can.
©Julian Stratenschulte/dpa
Emir-Can (17 years old, 12th grade), Pia (15 years old, 9th grade), and Thorben (18 years old, 12th grade) are members of the Schüler:innenkammer Hamburg (Hamburg Student Chamber) and spoke in an interview about their personal experiences with disruptions in lessons. Before the interview, they agreed to address each other informally.
What Causes Disruptions in the Classroom?
The students pinpointed several factors contributing to classroom disruptions:
- Boredom: When the material isn't engaging, students are more likely to tune out.
- Technology: Devices meant for learning can easily become distractions.
- Social Interactions: Talking to friends, making comments, or seeking constant assistance.
- Teacher-Student Dynamics: Endless arguments and ineffective disciplinary actions.
How Teachers Respond (And Why It Doesn't Always Work)
The students described various teacher responses, ranging from public reprimands to threats of expulsion. However, these tactics often proved ineffective, offering only temporary silence before the disruptions resumed. The key takeaway? Punishment alone isn't a long-term solution.
What Students Suggest for a Better Learning Environment
So, what does work? The students had several insightful suggestions:
- Engaging Lessons: Make the material interesting and relevant.
- Understanding: Teachers knowing their students and addressing the root cause of disruptions.
- Flexibility: Recognizing that no one can concentrate for extended periods and incorporating breaks or changes of pace.
- Respectful Communication: Addressing disruptive behavior in a non-accusatory, empathetic way.
- Dynamic Classrooms: Incorporating different learning environments and activity types within the classroom.
Is the Traditional Classroom Setting Always the Best?
This article highlights a common issue in today's education system: the struggle to maintain focus and engagement in a traditional classroom setting. But what if there was a way to tailor the learning experience to each child's individual needs, pace, and interests?
That's the driving force behind BlitzFast, an innovative, AI-powered online school that's reimagining the future of education.
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Key Takeaways:
- Classroom disruptions are a common problem with multiple contributing factors.
- Traditional disciplinary measures are often ineffective.
- Engaging lessons, understanding teachers, flexibility, respectful communication, and dynamic classrooms can improve the learning environment.
- BlitzFast offers a personalized, safe, and future-focused alternative to traditional schooling.
We believe that every child deserves the opportunity to thrive. Join us in creating a brighter future with BlitzFast.
