Individual and group management programs have been reported to be effective methods of reducing off-task behaviors; however, few studies have empirically contrasted the two intervention programs. Utilizing a multi-element design, individual and group contingency systems were found to significantly reduce disruptive-unacceptable behaviors in a…

The Good Behavior Game, a classroom management procedure, was examined for its effects on the frequency of inappropriate verbalizations in grade four and six regular classes. Results indicated that the game reduced inappropriate responding in both classrooms and that the use of candy did not augment the effectiveness of the Good Behavior Game.…

Basic ideas of reinforcement may be more easily applied in the classroom if three common teacher errors: noncontingent reinforcement, ambiguity of rules, and restriction of earnings, are avoided. (Author/SDH)

Problems and strategies in implementing classroom token economy systems as a means of behavior modification are reviewed. Discussed is the importance of such factors in the original token plan as the reinforcement schedule, and time-out procedures. Among implementation issues considered are observing and counting behaviors. (CL)

Discussed is the application of behavior management techniques to problem behaviors of normal children in the home or school. Examples are given of such techniques as behavioral contracting between child and adult, reduction of undesirable behaviors through withdrawal of reinforcers ("bother sticks" and "temper tickets"), the use of a timer to…

Combining education theory with technique of behavioral science produces a successful means of effecting change in the classroom, says the author, an advocate of contingency management. He discusses the tools, the strategy, and the rules of the game. (Editor/CB)

The Good Behavior Game (GBG), a type of interdependent group-oriented contingency management procedure, was first introduced in 1969 and has been used with overwhelming success in classrooms and other settings. Since its inception, the "game" has utilized team competition and peer influence combined with reinforcement procedures. It has been found…

Tested with 31 students (kindergarten through grade 5) who manifested poor and inappropriate classroom behaviors was a combination of direct intervention strategy for behavior modification and provision of a maintenance program for the classroom teacher. Strategies included the use of observation and introduction procedures; and direct…

This study examined the efficacy of behavior modification in treating three hyperkinetic children (6 to 12 years old). (Author)

Results of a survey of 730 teachers of the behaviorally disordered indicated that 70 percent used timeout procedures as a behavior management strategy, that teachers of younger children used the technique more frequently, and that physical and verbal aggression were the behaviors most frequently resulting in timeout. (Author/DB)

Offers a six-step procedure for developing and implementing a response cost system for changing problem classroom behaviors of students with learning disabilities. Steps described are establishing classroom rules, rewarding compliance, selecting reinforcers, reducing noncompliance through response cost consequences, following through on…

The booklet provides information on a number of strategies for teachers to use in managing disruptive behaviors in the classroom. In the first section several approaches (such as token economies) are discussed that pertain to the general, comprehensive management of classes. Included in Section II are several strategies (including taking away…

A contingency-based lottery system was implemented to improve the classroom behavior of 18 learning disabled and educable mentally handicapped students, aged 13 to 16 years. Results indicated substantial increases in times students remained in assigned areas, and numbers of students prepared for class; and marked reduction in nonauthorized…

This is the participant's book for a teacher training program in behavior analysis, called Classroom and Instructional Management, and developed by the Central Midwestern Regional Educational Laboratory. Unit 1 introduces the field of behavior analysis. It contains examples of behaviors and provides solutions for changing the behavior. Unit 2…

A group-contingency behavior game significantly decreased disruptive classroom behavior after five weeks. The classroom observers gradually phased themselves out of the program, while training the teacher to continue the game unaided. Further analysis of the relative influences of peer pressure and competition v social reinforcement is needed. (CP)