In the article "The Power of Routines: Achieving More with Less," Peps Mccrea explores the significant benefits of incorporating routines into classroom practice. Routines, defined as sequences of actions triggered by a cue and executed with minimal conscious thought, play a critical role in enhancing both teaching and learning. By establishing effective routines, educators can help students accomplish more with less cognitive effort, allowing them to focus on the content of the lesson rather than the process of learning.

One of the key advantages of routines is their ability to free up students' limited attention. When students are not preoccupied with navigating the logistics of the classroom, they can direct their cognitive resources toward understanding and engaging with the material being taught. This is particularly beneficial for students with special needs, as routines provide a sense of safety and predictability. Additionally, routines enable teachers to concentrate more on monitoring and responding to students' needs, rather than managing classroom procedures.

Mccrea emphasizes that routines do not need to be rigid or monotonous. Instead, teachers should develop a "repertoire of routines" tailored to different classroom situations. This approach ensures that while students experience familiarity, which fosters a sense of belonging and confidence, there is still room for creativity and engagement. Examples of effective routines include how students enter and exit the classroom, how teachers call for attention, and how classroom discussions or independent work are organized.

Contrary to concerns that routines might be boring for students, Mccrea argues that well-designed routines set students up for success by reducing the cognitive load required to manage classroom activities. This, in turn, frees up mental space for creativity and deeper learning. Moreover, routines can act as collective rituals that strengthen the sense of community and belonging within the classroom, which is essential for meaningful education.

In conclusion, routines are a powerful tool in responsive teaching. They enhance student learning by making the classroom experience more predictable and less cognitively demanding. By strategically implementing a variety of routines, educators can create an environment where students feel confident, focused, and capable of engaging deeply with the content, thereby achieving more with less effort.

Source: Mccrea, P. (2023, March 14). The Power of Routines: Achieving More with Less. Retrieved from https://pepsmccrea.substack.com/p/the-power-of-routines

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