The Science of Human Behavior

Rationale: Acting as a leader within a school setting — whether as a teacher, administrator, or student — is complex! As educational leaders, we are constantly concerned with the wellbeing of students and staff. By better understanding the science of human behavior and the five basic human needs, school leaders will be better equipped to create an environment that meets the needs of students and staff while promoting positive change within the school.

Learning Intention: Leaders will understand key principles related to Perceptual Control Theory and human behavior and will consider how to apply these principles — alongside tactics from Directing the Rider — to enact positive change within their buildings.

Success Criteria: Teams will know they are successful when they…

• understand the anatomy of the brain and how their actions as leaders can positively impact motivation

• understand the basic tenets of Perceptual Control Theory and can discuss how aligning references impacts the work of school improvement

• can articulate how the five basic human needs apply to students and educators and have considered how to create a needs-satisfying environment for their teams