Teach Expected Behaviors

Often, we tell students the expected behaviors, rules, or procedures, and we might even provide examples.   One way to get better results is to teach the behaviors we expect very explicitly.  APL says, "if you want it, teach it!"  This means that we provide an explanation and/or discussion of the behavior and why it's important.  Then we provide an accurate model and guided practice with feedback.  We also reinforce and reteach the behavior as necessary over time.

ASOT Elements: E4

FfT Components: 2a

Procedure:

1. Identify the important behavior and determine its steps.

   • e.g.,  accepting instructions from an adult at school

2. Say (and display) the behavior.  Explain the reasons it's important.

• 1. When an adult at school asks you to do something, you follow these steps:

     1. Look at the person.

     2. Say okay.

     3. Do it right away.

• • Doing this demonstrates respect.  Also, the adults at school ask you to do things to keep you safe and to help you and your classmates learn.

3. Model the steps of the behavior with high accuracy.

   • Use role play with another adult to give students an accurate understanding.

4. Prompt the students to practice the steps as you cue them.  Provide feedback!  Ask students to say or write the rule or steps in the procedure to encourage retention.

   • Let's practice together!  I'm going to ask you to do a few things.  Practice the steps...

     • Clap your hands.

     • Walk quietly around your desk.

5. Reinforce the behavior.  Provide positive feedback and correction, especially soon after teaching the behavior.  You can gradually offer less feedback as students demonstrate that they understand when and how to apply the behavior.

   • Now I know you understand how to accept directions from an adult.  I expect you to follow these three steps every time...

6. Reteach the behavior.  When individuals don't perform the taught behavior, invite them to a Retraining Seminar.  If several students are not using the taught steps, then reteach the behavior by modeling and practicing with the whole class.

Research & References:   Sharer, Anastasio, & Perry, 2007, p. 47 (APL)