Behavior Philosophy

My behavior philosophy is inspired by the discipline model of Skinner which states that behavior is learned and can be changed with the implementation of systematic techniques on specifically identified behavior. The teacher’s role is to identify the target behavior; arrange for consequences (reinforcement/refinements) and apply them appropriately.

The desired behavior must be identified and developed and modeled with the students in order to set expectations. Through a behavior management system such as Class Dojo, students and the teacher can shape individual behavior by adding or removing points and following up with actual consequences or rewards. If the consequences or rewards are never honored, the system will fail and students will lose credibility in the system and the teacher.

The behavior itself is emphasized and negative behavior is treated as a problem, rather than a symptom of the problem. In the same fashion, positive behavior is emphasized and treated as the answer.