Module 3 - Connors

In Chapter 7, we learned about how we learn or the processes rather. My favorite part of this chapter was the applied behavior analysis, which is "application of behavioral learning principles to change behavior." (Woolfolk, 262) I worked at Elim Christian School before the school that I currently work at. I loved working with the Behavior therapists there. They were so proactive and knowledgeable about modifying behavior. One of the students that I worked with used a token board system in his behavior plan. For a set about of minutes on task he would earn a token. At the end of a set amount of tokens needed he would earn his reward which was mostly iPad free time. My daughter struggles in school. It's difficult for her and she lets her emotions rule her while she is there. Her special education teacher put her on a token board so that she can earn rewards for academic work and positive classroom behavior. The token board has come into play after months of working with her and as Woolfolk states isn't used for uninterested students, failing students or to deal with an out of control class. It's to be used as an individual support for a specific student to curtail behavior that inhibits learning growth.

Chapter 13, is all about classroom management. Teachers are responsible for creating and maintaining an engaging and positive learning environment with their students. Some of the ways to achieve classroom management success are; routines and rules, social emotional well being, culturally sensitive environment, proactive teaching, time management and gaining cooperation. In preparing my teacher interview questions and reading this chapter it really helped me to understand the why behind what teachers are doing at work. I can tell what works at work with the students, but often times, I'm not sure why it works. So I really found this chapter particularly helpful to a future teacher. The section on prevention is the best medicine really rang true with me. I think it is easier to put out a small spark rather than a blaze! And this is true when it comes to behaviors. The part that I thought was really telling, but may sound like common sense is the "withitness" teachers at my work who seem to know everything and seem to have eyes behind their heads have the least amount of behaviors in their classrooms. They are 100% always watching, scanning and making eye contact with students. I think they effort pays off in the end for sure. I also like how Woolfolk points out that these teachers who are constantly monitoring always know who the offenders are and can talk to the right people in order to prevent more distractions or disruptions.