To change the norms, then, means that you need to also change the pattern of student behaviors and habits. From system theory we know that when we try to change a stable system, the system will defend itself. “In a system, all the features reinforce each other. If one feature is changed, the system will rush to repair the damage” (Stigler & Hiebert, 1999). When that system is a classroom, these defenses look like resisting, complaining, and apathy.
