Edu 690 Final Amanda Bright Man
-
Upload
amandasykes -
Category
Documents
-
view
222 -
download
0
Transcript of Edu 690 Final Amanda Bright Man
-
7/30/2019 Edu 690 Final Amanda Bright Man
1/37
Running head: USING BEHAVIORAL INTERVENTION STRATEGIES IN THE
CLASSROOM 1
Using Behavioral Intervention Strategies in the Classroom: An Early Intervention to
Keep Students in the Classroom and Engaged.
Amanda Brightman-Uhl
EDU 690
April 22, 2013
University of New England
-
7/30/2019 Edu 690 Final Amanda Bright Man
2/37
USING BEHAVIORAL INTERVENTION STRATEGIES IN THE CLASSROOM 2
Abstract
This Action Research Project investigated and determined the impact of early
behavior intervention in the classroom and its ability to decrease behavior outbursts in the
classroom, thus leading to increased student engagement and decrease special education
referrals. Four students and their general education teachers participated, grades:
kindergarten, first, third and sixth. Data collection methods included observation,
behavioral data collection, functional behavior analysis and teacher interviews and
surveys. The participating teachers were interviewed before and after implementation of
the individual behavior support plans to gauge their confidence levels. Data was collected
on the occurrence of targeted behaviors and behavioral interventions were implemented
in accordance to this data. A gradual decrease in behavioral mentoring occurred from the
teacher researcher, responsibility was transferred totally to the general education teachers.
The intervention period for this study was short and the results left some question as to
what behaviors were really extinguished and if behaviors were decreased over a
prolonged period. Results of the behavioral data collection and charting were promising
however.
-
7/30/2019 Edu 690 Final Amanda Bright Man
3/37
USING BEHAVIORAL INTERVENTION STRATEGIES IN THE CLASSROOM 3
Table of Contents
Abstract2
Table of Contents.3
Introductions5
Hypotheses..6
Research Questions.6
Literature Review6
Methodology .17
Research Design17
Data Collection Plan..17
Results19
Findings..19
Discussion..28
Limitations..30
Summary31
Action Plan ...31
Conclusion.33
References.35
List of Tables
Table 1- Data Collection Matrix....18
Table 2- IK Behavior Chart...21
Table 3- AK Behavior Chart.22
-
7/30/2019 Edu 690 Final Amanda Bright Man
4/37
USING BEHAVIORAL INTERVENTION STRATEGIES IN THE CLASSROOM 4
Table 4- LB Behavior Chart .23
Table 5- CI Behavior Chart...24
Table 6- Teacher Questionnaire Before Implementation..25
Table 7- Teacher Questionnaire After Implementation26
-
7/30/2019 Edu 690 Final Amanda Bright Man
5/37
USING BEHAVIORAL INTERVENTION STRATEGIES IN THE CLASSROOM 5
Introduction
The ability to behave appropriately in a group affects every student in school and
even later into their lives. It helps individuals deal with stressful situations, get along with
others in a variety of situations and even hold down a job. Even though acting
appropriately in school has always been expected, there have been increased referrals for
special education services due to problem behaviors. While there is speculation as to why
this might be happening, the ultimate goal is to educate students in the least restrictive
environment possible. When dealing with behaviors that interrupt instruction to the point
that general classroom behavior plans are no longer working, more intensive
interventions might be necessary. Some schools have started adopting school wide
behavior support plans but this is far from being universal. Still the emphasis seems to be
on teaching to the test, with reading and mathematics instruction in the forefront, and
differentiation and interventions for academic purposes only. As time goes on and
educators realize that behavior has an impact on engaged learning time and students
achievements, more behavioral interventions will be used earlier in the process.
In this Action Research Project whole classroom behavior management plans
were used in the participating classrooms, however individual behavior support plans had
not been implemented with students before these interventions occurred. The purpose of
the study was to see if implementing individual behavior support plans would decrease
targeted behaviors, thus leading to increased student engagement time, as well as
decrease classroom interruptions and special education referrals for behavior.
-
7/30/2019 Edu 690 Final Amanda Bright Man
6/37
USING BEHAVIORAL INTERVENTION STRATEGIES IN THE CLASSROOM 6
Hypothesis
The students targeted in this study exhibited significant behavioral difficulties in
the classroom beyond what the typical student exhibits; this in turn affects whole class
engaged learning time.
The following study was established to test the hypothesis that early behavioral
interventions will cut down on behavior related classroom interruptions thus leading to
more engaged learning time. Research will be collection while four teachers implement
individual behavior support plans in the classroom.
Research Questions
Does the typical general education teacher have enough knowledge to implement
an individualized behavior plan without the help of an aid?
Can a general education teacher implement an individual behavior plan for one
student without the help of an aid?
Does the use of an individualized behavior plan with a struggling student increase
overall student engagement and achievement?
How successful are behavior intervention on decreasing problem behaviors when
used as a last step before a special education referral?
Literature Review
Almost every student has engaged in a problem behavior at one time or another. It
becomes concerning when students continue to engage in these behaviors and disruptions
start to negatively impact their education as well as their peers. When a child is engaging
in a negative behavior they are trying to get a need met. What is the function of the
-
7/30/2019 Edu 690 Final Amanda Bright Man
7/37
USING BEHAVIORAL INTERVENTION STRATEGIES IN THE CLASSROOM 7
negative behavior? It is important to intervene early in this type of situation and
determine what the need is without reinforcing the negative behavior. If a student is
looking for attention and attention is given from the teacher in order to stop the
disruption, what behavior is being reinforced? Most of the time negative behavior gains
attention. For some students negative attention is better than no attention at all. Small
classroom disruptions can often be handled with good classroom management skills and
the use of a whole classroom behavior plan. There are some instances though, when a
student needs additional support to be successful in the general education setting. There
may be instances where teachers need extra support or training in classroom management
and behavioral interventions. If problem behaviors are caught early enough and a
behavioral response to intervention (RTI) is tried, studies have shown that special
education referrals for behavior should reduce, the amount of punitive punishments used
should go down, and student achievement should improve.
Skinner & Belmont (1993) focus on student motivation and how individual
teachers behavior influence this. When thinking about student behavior and why early
interventions work, it is important to think about the teachers role. In this study they
examined three dimensions of 14 teachers behaviors on 144 children aged 3-5 years.
Skinner et al. (1993) explain that the opposite of engagement is disaffection. Disaffected
children are passive, do not try hard, and give up easily in the face of challenges.
Disaffected children can be bored, depressed, anxious, or even angry about their presence
in the classroom; they can be withdrawn from learning opportunities or even rebellious
towards teachers and classmates. Skinner et al. (1993) found that the more engaged and
-
7/30/2019 Edu 690 Final Amanda Bright Man
8/37
USING BEHAVIORAL INTERVENTION STRATEGIES IN THE CLASSROOM 8
attentive the student was the more positive attention they received, with the opposite
being said for the disaffected student. These findings suggest that students who are
behaviorally disengaged receive teacher responses that should further undermine their
motivation. When thinking about student behavior it is important to look at the general
education classroom first. This is where the first steps of intervention should take place.
If there is a particular student who is having a hard time behaving in the classroom it is
important to ask how is the teacher interacting with them? What steps is the teacher
taking to differentiate behaviorally? What is the teachers motivation when interacting
with the students? Do they just want the disruption ended or are they trying to figure out
the root of the problem? This is a great article to research because of its work with
preschool aged children, its focus on their developing intrinsic motivation and how
teachers play a vital role in this. Skinner et al. (1993) found that teachers interactions
with students predicted student behavioral and emotional engagement in the classroom,
both directly and through their efforts with student perception of their interactions with
teachers. Teacher behavior influences student perceptions of their interactions with
teachers. It is exciting to think about the connection between this information when
thinking about early behavior intervention in the general education setting.
Tillery, Varjas, Meyers & Collins (2010) explain a series of in depth interviews
with kindergarten and first grade teachers to see how they view their impact on student
behavior. This study was conducted in 21 rural public schools in the Southeastern United
States. It describes their different approaches on behavior management and what they see
as most important in regards to this. Tillery et al. (2010) states that because problem
-
7/30/2019 Edu 690 Final Amanda Bright Man
9/37
USING BEHAVIORAL INTERVENTION STRATEGIES IN THE CLASSROOM 9
behaviors become more entrenched in a students repertoire over time, early
identification and treatment is imperative to ensure positive future outcomes.
Consequently, teachers of children in the primary grades are ideally positioned to serve as
the frontline defense for intervening with behavioral difficulties if provided with the
proper training and resources. Using a RTI for behavior problems in the classroom
sounds like a logical step as it is already done for academics everyday. Having specific
tiers as Tillery et al. (2010) explains, using behavior interventions within an RTI
framework can be an effective and efficient method for determining eligibility for special
education as well as achieving federal mandates for early intervention and accountability.
Most important, positive behavior interventions and supports are a preventive measure
that can allow children to receive much-needed intervention before they reach a crisis
state. A teachers involvement and philosophies of education will often have an impact
on their classroom management skills. The research in this article really brings to light
the fact that most general education teachers do not have the training in behavioral
management beyond the typical student occasionally acting out. It was also found that
teachers often take a one-size fits all approach with little to no differentiation in their
classroom behavior plans. Overall, teachers agreed that when their students are on task
and following directions, engagement and academic achievement is higher.
Daniel & King (1997) gives a great overview on the pros and cons of inclusion.
Daniel et al. (1997) explain that boundaries that once separated general education and
special education are becoming increasingly blurred as the educational reform known as
inclusion is emerging in schools throughout the nation. Inclusion is the placement of
-
7/30/2019 Edu 690 Final Amanda Bright Man
10/37
USING BEHAVIORAL INTERVENTION STRATEGIES IN THE CLASSROOM 10
students with disabilities in regular education classrooms. With the switch to more
inclusion type models and the cuts being made to special education, it is crucial that
teachers start taking on more of the differentiation responsibilities. Many agree this is less
restrictive, with benefits including increased academic and social opportunities. Daniel et
al. (1997) also touch on why inclusion might not, work stating that teaching as "one-size
fits all" disregards the individual needs of special education students. Moreover, when the
demands of servicing students with disabilities, some severe, are added to the regular
education classroom, the needs of low, average, and above-average students are often
ignored. This is where the need for early interventions could really help these individual
students. This reinforces the fact that teachers will need more training in inclusion
strategies as well as a strong, closely supervised, School-wide Positive Behavioral
Interventions and Supports (SWPBIS). Many schools have moved away from the pullout
method and have opted to provide extra supports in the classroom. Daniel et al. (1997)
state that there does appear, however, to be a higher instance of behavioral problems
among students in inclusion classrooms, implying that the inclusion teacher may devote
significant time to discipline problems, thereby diminishing time spent on instruction.
Moreover, the problems brought into the inclusion classroom by students with special
needs may potentially have negative effects on other students in the classroom. This gives
an interesting perspective on the other side of inclusion and how its not always the best
option. There are, of course, times when behaviors are so severe that a self-contained
program is the least restrictive option. It also reinforces the concept once again that
SWPBIS is the direction schools should head in.
-
7/30/2019 Edu 690 Final Amanda Bright Man
11/37
USING BEHAVIORAL INTERVENTION STRATEGIES IN THE CLASSROOM 11
Langdon, Carr, & Owen-DeSchryver (2008) do an outstanding job of explaining
precursor behaviors. They give specific examples of how to detect behavior problems by
identifying the precursor behaviors before the interruption occurs. Langdon et al. (2008)
state that precursor behaviors are innocuous behaviors that reliably precede the
occurrence of problem behavior. It has been suggested that problem behaviors occur in a
sequence, from least to most problematic. Langdon et al. (2008) state that the relationship
between precursor behavior and problem behavior could provide information useful in
the prevention of problem behavior. It has been hypothesized that intervention efforts
applied to these earlier, often more innocuous behaviors, might prevent the occurrence of
more severe forms of problem behavior. For example, if a students precursor behavior is
task refusal which then typically leads to aggression (kicking, hitting, etc) it would be
safe to assume that intervening when there is task refusal would cut down on the
occurrence of aggression. Without appropriate training or knowledge of functional
assessment, general education teachers might not know how to appropriately treat these
precursor behaviors.
Kern, Childs, Dunlap, Clarke, & Falk, (1994) explain the use of functional
analysis and functional assessment to manage behaviors in the classroom. Kern et al.
(1994) take a look at behavior in a very systematic way using data collection and event
recording to determine what behaviors to target and how to appropriately address these
behaviors. In order to address problem behavior in the classroom, Kern et al. (1994)
explain it is first important to identify environmental variables and stimuli that are
associated with occurrences of the targeted behavior. The advantages of this systematic
-
7/30/2019 Edu 690 Final Amanda Bright Man
12/37
USING BEHAVIORAL INTERVENTION STRATEGIES IN THE CLASSROOM 12
approach to identifying controlling variables include increased confidence that the
identified variables are related functionally to the target behavior and a greater likelihood
of intervention effectiveness in cases in which other approaches have failed. Knowing
what precursors behaviors are and how to target them before more challenging behaviors
present themselves are key to this process. Kern et al. (1994) believe that teachers who
possess good classroom management skills are more likely to change, make
accommodations or modifications to the environment and their own teaching styles to
best accommodate the needs of individual students. If a general education teacher is able
to identify the most basic functions of problem behaviors and make small changes based
on these observations, this is in all actuality a very basic form of functional behavior
analysis. This study found that curricular-based interventions by teachers can in fact
significantly reduce problem behaviors in the classroom. Once again, the training of
teachers or having a school-wide plan of action concerning behaviors is crucial to early
intervention.
Codding, Feinberg, Dunn, & Pace (2005) study was to expand the literature on
special education teachers' treatment and integrity for implementing antecedent and
consequence procedures in an ongoing behavior support plan. The teachers in this study
were given weekly feedback on their implementation of individual behavior plans in the
classrooms. Feedback based on performance has always proven successful and vital in
academic interventions; it has been proven true for teachers using behavior interventions
as well. One piece of the study examined four general education teachers and their
abilities to implement individual interventions targeting out-of-seat and talking out of
-
7/30/2019 Edu 690 Final Amanda Bright Man
13/37
USING BEHAVIORAL INTERVENTION STRATEGIES IN THE CLASSROOM 13
turn behaviors. What were targeted in particular were the precursor behaviors and the
likelihood that addressing those precursors would cut down on more disruptive behavior.
The mainstream teachers received training in behavioral intervention and were observed
before the implementation, baselines were collected on each student in question, and then
the intervention took place. Feedback was given on a weekly basis from the special
education teacher involved in each case. Codding et al. (2005) explain that research has
demonstrated that weekly feedback leads to increases in treatment integrity and may be
more practical for supervisors, clinicians, and consultants than daily performance
feedback. This study gives great insight on how to be successful when implementing
individual behavior plan in the general education setting.
Lassen, Steele, & Sailor (2006) examine schools implementing SWPBIS to see if
behavioral interventions cut down on student suspensions, office discipline referrals,
academic achievement, etc. This study was done over a three-year period (2000-2003)
involving multiple schools in urban areas with a high number of mixed races. This article
and research provides another perspective on SWPBIS by giving insight on interventions
being done with older students. When starting a SWPBIS in a school for the first time
you dont always have the luxury of starting with strictly five year olds, you may be
trying to implement behavioral interventions with eighth graders or even higher. Lassen
et al. (2006) state that it is estimated approximately 10% of children and adolescents in
the United States suffer from some form of mental illness that significantly impairs their
ability to function in an everyday setting. There are some instances where a more
restrictive environment is needed but many times disruptions from behavior can be
-
7/30/2019 Edu 690 Final Amanda Bright Man
14/37
USING BEHAVIORAL INTERVENTION STRATEGIES IN THE CLASSROOM 14
addressed and maintained without leaving the general education setting. SWPBIS rely on
being proactive and not reactive, solving behavior problems before they get to a place
where special education referrals must be made. Reading about this study gives us
perspective on SWPBIS being implemented in urban schools with moderate to severe
behavior challenges. If school wide interventions can work in these struggling schools to
create a better school environment, cut down on punitive punishments and boost
academic achievement, it should work anywhere. Its a known fact that disruptions in
class impact instructional time and student engagement. It is important to note that
teachers were given extra training on handling classroom behavior disruptions. The
students were also trained in a school expectation program called Step by Step. After
reviewing the data after three years most of their hypotheses were proven to be true.
Suspensions were greatly reduced, schools recovered an approximate 659 instructional
hours per year since implementing the SWPBIS and standardized assessment scores in
math increased significantly while surprisingly scores in reading decreased the first year
and then slowly increased over the next two. This reminds us that SWPBIS can greatly
improve many areas of a school, not only academic achievement. There are other factors
at play here of course. Behavioral interruptions account for lower academic achievement,
but they are not the sole reason. It was interesting to compare this study of urban schools
with those of the rural schools. It showed that even though they are different in many
ways, they have many of the same worries and problems regarding behavior.
Sugai & Homer (2006) dig deeper into SWPBIS and how schools can adopt a
program and make it successful. Sugai et al. (2006) point out that sustained and expanded
-
7/30/2019 Edu 690 Final Amanda Bright Man
15/37
USING BEHAVIORAL INTERVENTION STRATEGIES IN THE CLASSROOM 15
uses of these interventions and practices have not been consistent or widespread. A
number of factors can affect the adoption and sustained use of these effective practices.
For example, recent mandates have increased expectations that schools will provide for
the educational needs of all students and create safer learning and teaching environments.
Thinking about this coupled with many schools having fewer resources to work with, its
no wonder that it is hard for an individual school to take the initiative but if you think
about SWPBIS in the long term it makes sense and can save schools money. If a school
takes the time to train and educate their teachers then more restrictive interventions can
be avoided. Each time a student is referred to special education, an aid is hired, a student
is sent to a specialized program or a behavior consultant is called in, it costs the school
money. If more was invested in being proactive instead of reactive it would be worth it
not only for monetary purposes, but because it is whats best for the students. As the past
articles have shown, use of the one size fits all or the get-though approaches do not
work in all behavioral-based situations. Another very important fact to keep in mind is
not to jump on the SWPBIS bandwagon; research must be done to see which behavioral
RTI plan will work best for each school. It is also important to research the specific plan
you are adopting. Has it had good outcomes for others? Sugai et al. (2006) state that
when experimentally supported practices are not available, promising practices can be
useful; adoption and implementation however, should proceed with caution. To avoid
unforeseen negative side effects, excessive costs, and inefficient use of resources and
time, promising or innovative practices should be pilot tested, and if adopted, evaluated
early and frequently. Equally important, innovative practices must be conceptually
-
7/30/2019 Edu 690 Final Amanda Bright Man
16/37
USING BEHAVIORAL INTERVENTION STRATEGIES IN THE CLASSROOM 16
sound---that is, grounded in a theoretical model that has been experimentally validated.
Like having an academic RTI, a behavioral RTI would need a leadership team to create a
plan of action for implementation of the SWPBIS. Constant evaluations would need to be
done during the process and regular check-ins to see how its going for everyone in the
school. This article ties in nicely with teachers getting individual feedback in the
classroom regarding individual behavior plans. If you roll the two together you have a
nice, well-rounded behavioral RTI with efficient tiers that serve all students.
These articles bring together some important ideas regarding behavioral
interventions. They touch upon school-wide, single classroom or individual student
interventions. They focus on the data that supports each of these types of interventions
and how they each impact student achievement. A common theme in all of the articles is
the needs for teachers to be better trained in behavioral interventions. In hopes to
eventually create a behavior response to intervention in my own school, I found these
articles to be very useful in my research. I have the tools and training needed to use
functional behavior assessment with individual students and create individual behavior
plans. I hope in doing so, this will cut down on the special education referrals for
behavior, help guide teachers in differentiating for behavior, and help increase students
achievement in the classroom. I am aware that behavior disruptions take away from
instructional time so my overarching goal of a SWPBIS will be well on its way after this
research project is complete. It is important to note, some behavior problems are caused
by an underlying mental health disorder and may need more restrictive interventions no
matter what in-class interventions are tried. It is important to rule out all medical reasons
-
7/30/2019 Edu 690 Final Amanda Bright Man
17/37
USING BEHAVIORAL INTERVENTION STRATEGIES IN THE CLASSROOM 17
for why a student may be engaging in negative behaviors. An individual behavior support
plan may be implemented after finding the function of the behavior and choosing key
behaviors to target. This would be done when other classroom behavior management
strategies have been tried without success.
Methodology
Research design
The purpose of this Action Research Project was to determine if using early
behavioral interventions in the classroom would increase student engagement, decrease
behavioral incidents in the classroom and reduce special education referrals.
Additionally, the teacher researcher investigated the ability of general education teachers
to implement individual behavior plans in their classroom.
Data Collection Plan
A data collection matrix was developed to help determine the impact of early
behavior interventions in the classroom (Table 1).
-
7/30/2019 Edu 690 Final Amanda Bright Man
18/37
USING BEHAVIORAL INTERVENTION STRATEGIES IN THE CLASSROOM 18
Table 1
Data Collection Matrix
Research Questions 1 2 3
1) Does the typical
general education
teacher have enoughknowledge to
implement an
individualized
behavior planwithout the help of
an aid?
Teacher survey Interviews with
participating
classroom teachers
Teacher and student
observations
2) Can a generaleducation teacher
implement anindividualized
behavior plan for
one student withoutthe help of an aid?
Teacher survey Interviews withparticipating
classroom teachers
Teacher observation
3) Does the use ofan individualized
behavior plan for a
struggling studentincrease overall
student engagement
and achievement?
Student recordreview of past
punishments; time
spent out of theclassroom
Teacher and studentobservations
Data collection andcomparison of:
* Grades beforeand after
implementation of
behavior plan
Data collection and
comparison of:
* Minutes of
instruction not
interrupted by
negative behaviorsbefore and after
implementation ofindividual behavior
plan
4) How effective is Teacher survey Teacher and student Data collection and
-
7/30/2019 Edu 690 Final Amanda Bright Man
19/37
behavioral
intervention ondecreasing problem
behaviors when
done as the last step
before a specialeducation referral
for behavior?
Student recordreview of past
punishments
observations comparison of:
* Occurrences of
behavior before and
after behavior plan
implementation
USING BEHAVIORAL INTERVENTION STRATEGIES IN THE CLASSROOM 19
Data for this Action Research Project was collected over a four-week period. Teacher
surveys, interviews, classroom observation, five-minute interval data collection, charts of
target behavior and their occurrences, and functional behavioral assessments were
completed and collected during the time period of March 4, 2013 through April 12, 2013.
Results
Findings
Data is presented in graph form from behavior interval data collection, teacher
questionnaires and observations done in summary form.
Before the behavior support plans were implemented the teacher researcher had
the four participating general education teachers fill out a questionnaire, the results of this
found on graph 5. The questionnaires were used to measure the teachers perceptions on
implementing the behavior supports plans themselves. Another questionnaire was given
after a month of implementation, results shown on graph 6. The information will be
helpful in determining if each teacher felt supported enough during early behavior
intervention of implementing a behavior support plan on their own.
-
7/30/2019 Edu 690 Final Amanda Bright Man
20/37
USING BEHAVIORAL INTERVENTION STRATEGIES IN THE CLASSROOM 20
The teacher researcher compiled the five-minute interval sheets on each of the
four students participating in the early behavioral interventions. The results for each of
these students can be found in graphs 1 through 4. Data collection was started on the 11th
of February 2013 and the behavior plans were started on the 25th of February. Starting the
data collection before the implementation of the behavior plans, helped the student
researcher get behavioral baselines and made it possible for the behavior analysis
assessments to be done and individual behavior plans created.
In graph 1 the targeted behaviors for student IK are body posturing, rude vocal
tone and calling out. The graph shows that these targeted behaviors were observed
between 2% and 13% of the students school day before implementation of the individual
behavior support plan. When the behavior plan was started on the 25th of February the
targeted behaviors had decreased slightly but were still observed between 0% and 6% of
the students school day between the dates of February 25th and March 5th. After March
5th the targeted behaviors were no longer observed.
Graph 1. Behavior Data Results
-
7/30/2019 Edu 690 Final Amanda Bright Man
21/37
USING BEHAVIORAL INTERVENTION STRATEGIES IN THE CLASSROOM 21
IK Behavior Chart
0
2
4
6
8
10
12
14
16
18
20
School Days
Body Posturing
Rude Vocal Tone
Calling Out
Graph 1. Student data collected from five-minute interval sheets on targeted behaviors.
In graph 2, the targeted behaviors for student AK are task refusal, eloping, and
tantrum. The graph shows a baseline of targeted behaviors observed between 0% and 6%
of the students school day. After implementation of the individual behavior support plan
the students targeted behavior stayed between 0% and 6 % without a lot of fluctuation
for the first week. After the first week the targeted behaviors were observed much less
and not at all on many days. A few extinction bursts were observed on March 4, 8, 11,
and 19.
-
7/30/2019 Edu 690 Final Amanda Bright Man
22/37
USING BEHAVIORAL INTERVENTION STRATEGIES IN THE CLASSROOM 22
Graph 2. Behavior Data Results
AK Behavior Chart
0
2
4
6
8
10
12
14
16
18
20
School Days
Task Refusal
Eloping
Tantrum
Graph 2. Student data collected from five-minute interval sheets on targeted behaviors.
-
7/30/2019 Edu 690 Final Amanda Bright Man
23/37
USING BEHAVIORAL INTERVENTION STRATEGIES IN THE CLASSROOM 23
Graph 3. Behavior Data
Results
LB Behavior Chart
0
2
4
6
8
10
12
14
16
18
20
School Days
Task Refusal
Eloping
Destruction
Agression
Graph 3. Student data collected from five-minute interval sheets on targeted behaviors.
In graph 3 the targeted behaviors for LB are task refusal, eloping, destruction and
aggression. The graph shows a baseline of targeted behaviors between 0% and 10% of
the students school day. After implementation of the individual behavior support plan,
the students targeted behavior decreased, but not right away. It took a solid week of
implementation before targeted behaviors started to subside. By March 6th the targeted
behaviors had diminished with only a few extinction bursts taking place on March 8, 11,
and 19.
-
7/30/2019 Edu 690 Final Amanda Bright Man
24/37
USING BEHAVIORAL INTERVENTION STRATEGIES IN THE CLASSROOM 24
Graph 4. Behavior Data Results
CI Behavior Chart
0
2
4
6
8
10
12
14
16
18
20
School Days
Eloping
Agression
Not Following Directions
Graph 4. Student data collected from five-minute interval sheets on targeted behaviors.
In graph 4, the targeted behaviors for CI are eloping, aggression and not following
directions. The graph shows some significant incidents of behavior, observed between
4% and 12% of the students school day. After implementation of the individual behavior
support plan it took roughly a week to see a noticeable decrease in targeted behaviors.
There are only two days shown with no behavioral observations of the targeted behaviors,
March 6 and 11. This graph shows an overall decrease in behavior but no extinction at
this time.
-
7/30/2019 Edu 690 Final Amanda Bright Man
25/37
USING BEHAVIORAL INTERVENTION STRATEGIES IN THE CLASSROOM 25
Graph 5. Behavior Data Results
Teacher Questionnaire Before Implamentation of Behavior Plan
0
0.5
1
1.5
2
2.5
3
3.5
4
Agree Somewhat
Agree
Unsure Somewhat
Disagree
Disagree
Teacher Opinion
I feel prepared to implement anindividual behavior plan on my own:
I believe I have the skills and training toimplement the individual behavior plan:
I feel comfortable asking for helpimplementing the plan if I feeloverwhelmed:
I will follow through with the behaviorplan even if I am not seeing results
I am confidant in my abilities to follow abehavior plan with supervision:
Graph 5. Questionnaire asked teachers a number of questions on their comfortimplementing behavior support plans before the implementation.
Graph 5 represents the answers received from the four general education teachers
participating in the actions research project before the implementation of the individual
behavior support plans. Two teachers agreed that they felt prepared to implement the
individual behavior plan on their own while one agreed somewhat and one was unsure.
Two teachers agreed somewhat they had the skills and training to implement the
individual behavior plans while two somewhat disagreed. All four of the participating
teachers agreed that they felt comfortable asking for help implementing the plan if feeling
overwhelmed. Three agreed they would follow through with the implementation of the
behavior plan even if they felt they were not seeing results while one somewhat agreed.
-
7/30/2019 Edu 690 Final Amanda Bright Man
26/37
USING BEHAVIORAL INTERVENTION STRATEGIES IN THE CLASSROOM 26
Two teachers agreed that they were confident in their abilities to follow a behavior plan
with supervision while one somewhat agreed and one felt unsure.
Graph 6. Behavior Data Results
Teacher Opinion After Implementation of Behavior Plan
0
0.5
1
1.5
2
2.5
3
3.5
4
4.5
Agree Somewhat
Agree
Unsure Somewhat
Disagree
Disagree
Teacher Opinion
I feel prepared to implement anindividual behavior plan on my own:
I believe I have the skills and training to
implement the individual behavior plan:
I feel comfortable asking for helpimplementing the plan if I feeloverwhelmed:
I will follow through with the behaviorplan even if I am not seeing results
I am confidant in my abilities to follow abehavior plan with supervision:
Graph 6. Questionnaire asked teachers a number of questions on their comfort
implementing behavior supports plans after the implementation.
Graph 6 represents the answers received from the four general education teachers
participating in the actions research project after a month of implementing the individual
behavior support plans. Three teachers agreed that they felt prepared to implement the
individual behavior plan on their own as opposed to two before the implementation. One
still somewhat agreed while no one was unsure as opposed to one person before
implementation. Four teachers agreed that they had the skills and training to implement
the individual behavior plan after a month of implementation as opposed to two
-
7/30/2019 Edu 690 Final Amanda Bright Man
27/37
USING BEHAVIORAL INTERVENTION STRATEGIES IN THE CLASSROOM 27
somewhat agreeing and two somewhat disagreeing. All four of the participating teachers
continued to agree that they feel comfortable asking for help implementing the plan if
feeling overwhelmed, the same as before implementation. Four now agreed they would
follow through with the implementation of the behavior plan even if they felt they were
not seeing results as opposed to before implementation, when one teacher somewhat
agreed. Three teachers agreed that they were confident in their abilities to follow a
behavior plan with supervision after a month of implementation as opposed to before,
with two agreeing, one being unsure and one somewhat disagreeing before
implementation.
Classroom observations were preformed on February 4, 5, 6 11, 15, 25, and 26,
March 1, 4, 8, 11, 15, and 22, 2013 by the student researcher and lasted approximately 30
minutes each. The functional behavioral assessments were done after the observation
days of February 4, 5, 6 11, and 15. The teacher researcher had the individual behavior
plans written and ready to be implement on February 25th, right after returning from
February break. The classroom observations done on February 25, March 1, 4, 8, 11, 15
and 22 were used as check-ins to make sure the plans were being followed, make changes
to any plans that might need it, and to see how the students were reacting to the plan. The
teacher researcher also collected the five-minute interval data sheets during these times to
check the overall effectiveness of the plans.
Teacher interviews were also done after school as a group on all observations
days. The interviews lasted ten to fifteen minutes and the four participating teachers
asked questions, received feedback and conferred with each other and the teacher
-
7/30/2019 Edu 690 Final Amanda Bright Man
28/37
USING BEHAVIORAL INTERVENTION STRATEGIES IN THE CLASSROOM 28
researcher about their experiences. The teacher researcher would ask questions similar to
the teacher questionnaire to gauge how the teachers thought the process was going.
During the interviews the teachers of students AK and CI shown in graphs 2 and 4
struggled the most during the first two weeks of plan implementation. The teacher
researcher noted that on the last observation day, March 22nd, all four teachers stated they
could see a big difference in the participating students behaviors and the classroom
atmosphere as a whole.
Discussion
When analyzing the data for IK found in graph 1, the teacher researcher could see
by looking at it that there was an initial drop in behavior because of the novelty of the
behavior plan being implemented. After a few days the behavior increased. This typically
happens because the student wants to see if the teacher will be consistent and follow
through in the same manner each time the targeted behavior occurs. The behavior
decreased again after about a week of implementation and spiked one last time before
decreasing once again. This is called an extinction burst. An extinction burst happens just
before a behavior is extinguished, one last attempt to see if previously tolerated negative
behaviors will be tolerated again. If a behavior plan is followed then you will see similar
results to graph 1, with the targeted behavior dropping off completely. This participating
teacher was very confident in her ability to implement the behavior support plan and that
came across during classroom observations. She was consistent and on top of the data
collection. Chances are good that the behaviors will be easier to control and be less of a
disruption to the rest of the class.
-
7/30/2019 Edu 690 Final Amanda Bright Man
29/37
USING BEHAVIORAL INTERVENTION STRATEGIES IN THE CLASSROOM 29
When looking over the data for AK, found in graph 2, the teacher researcher
could see that this student was still engaging in problem behaviors. While there was a
decrease after the initial implementation there continued to be spikes, although the
percentages did decrease overall. The teacher researcher did note during observations and
the teacher interviews that this participating teacher did show signs of hesitancy when
implementing the plan. She seemed unsure of when to address the targeted behaviors and
tried ignoring when she should have been attending, sending mixed messages to the
student. After more coaching from the teacher researcher and a slight change to the
behavior plan the last few weeks showed a drop in behaviors.
Student LB, data found in graph 3 showed a decrease in behaviors almost
immediately after the implementation of the behavior support plan. This student in
particular presented with some very serious and disruptive behaviors. Because of
exhibited behaviors this student had the biggest risk of being pulled from the mainstream
classroom. The student presented in graph 3 has four targeted behaviors as opposed to
three. While there are still small spikes in behavior the general education teacher stated
that she felt like she had control over her classroom again. In this case the teacher
researcher noted that the participating teacher had had experience with behavior plans
before and was observed as being very comfortable implementing the behavior plan
efficiently and effectively.
Student CI, data found in graph 4, shows a more gradual decrease in targeted
behaviors. Before the implementation of the behavior support plan the targeted behaviors
were taking up 13% of this students school day. While the plan was still relatively new,
-
7/30/2019 Edu 690 Final Amanda Bright Man
30/37
USING BEHAVIORAL INTERVENTION STRATEGIES IN THE CLASSROOM 30
the targeted behaviors had decreased significantly over a one-month period. There were a
few extinction bursts but each time the baseline for this student was lower than
previously. During observations and teacher interviews it was obvious to the teacher
researcher that as the teacher saw changes in the behavior of her student, the more
confident she became following though with the plan.
Limitations
There were limitations that were considered when examining the data results of
the study. The first was relying on others to collect behavioral data. Only having nine
observations that lasted roughly 30 minutes in each classroom left the bulk of the data
collection and implementation of the individual behaviors plans up to the general
education teachers. The small number of student and teacher participants represented a
limited sample. The way each teacher implemented the individual behavior support plan
varied depending on his or her different teaching and classroom management pedagogies.
Things that would have enriched the study are additional student observations and a
longer time period to collect behavior data. The research finding will be solely used
within the setting of Great Salt Bay Community School and the research data will be
shown to the schools administration and perhaps the rest of the faculty after that. This is
a means to introduce individual behavior plans to general education classrooms; its affect
on student management and special education referrals due to behavior will also be
addressed.
-
7/30/2019 Edu 690 Final Amanda Bright Man
31/37
USING BEHAVIORAL INTERVENTION STRATEGIES IN THE CLASSROOM 31
Summary
The significance of this study is that early behavioral interventions in the
classroom do reduce interruptions caused by negative behaviors overall. Direct
monitoring and mentoring of behavioral specialists and general education teachers help
facilitate independence and competence in implementing individual behavior support
plans. By cutting back on interruptions caused by behavior there are more opportunities
for engaged learning time.
When a teacher has the skills, knowledge and confidence to implement behavior
support plans in the classroom it is shown to reduce the occurrence of negative behaviors.
This Action Research Project shows that with teacher dedication and buy-in to the
reeducation of classroom interruptions, individual behavior support plans can work and
work well. Teachers started creating more learning opportunities connecting behavior to
learning as the process went on, helping all students with behavioral self-regulation.
When students are able to identify their feelings and find alternative ways to deal with
frustration and stressful situations the skills will help them for the rest of their lives.
School is not just about learning academic skills but about interacting appropriately with
others, mood regulation, self-calming and impulse control just to name a few others.
When teachers have the skills to help their students attain their own behavioral stability it
creates a better, more positive learning environment conducive to learning.
Action Plan
The teacher researcher will continue to oversee the implementation of the four
individual behavior plans. Data will continue to be gathered, charted and graphed along
-
7/30/2019 Edu 690 Final Amanda Bright Man
32/37
USING BEHAVIORAL INTERVENTION STRATEGIES IN THE CLASSROOM 32
with grades being compared of students before and after implementation. The teacher
researcher will also continue to create behavior plans and work with students referred to
special education for behavior. The teacher researcher also plans on meeting with the four
participating students teachers for next year, to help them with the implementation of
their plans and the transition to a new classroom and teacher. This will make the
transition smoother and some of the students may even be able to transition back to the
general classroom behavior management plan.
The effect of early behavioral intervention in the general education classroom will
continue to be researched and studied in hopes of creating a school wide behavior support
plan. The initial study was limited in time further research will be done over a longer
period of time with other sample groups. The longer the research takes place and with
more participants the more results you have to pull from. The teacher researcher will ask
if any other teachers would like to be part of the research and try individual or whole
class behavior support plans. This would provide the teacher researcher with additional
data, experience and perspective on what a whole school behavior plan would look like
and the impact it could ultimately have. The teacher researcher will hold a meeting where
the participating teachers can offer collaborative support and discuss their own
experiences with other interested teachers.
The teacher researcher plans on meeting with the four participating teachers, any
other teachers willing to participate, the vice-principal and principal to present the data
collected to make a case for a school wide behavior support plan. The teachers currently
involved in the action research will be asked to discuss what effects the implementation
-
7/30/2019 Edu 690 Final Amanda Bright Man
33/37
USING BEHAVIORAL INTERVENTION STRATEGIES IN THE CLASSROOM 33
of individual behavior plans have on their own classrooms. The participating teachers
will also be asked to share their experience and how they think a whole school behavior
support plan would benefit everyone. Parents of the participating students will be asked
to join in talking about how their childs behavior has improved in the classroom and
what they thought of the process. This study has proven that with early behavioral
intervention, problem behaviors can be reduced in the classroom with an individual
behavior support plan. It also makes a strong case for a whole school behavior support
plan. Early intervention has been shown to increase student engagement time and overall
academic achievement. The teacher researcher will also suggest a teacher workshop day
be used to train general education staff on behavior de-escalation and how to implement
behavior plans for a whole group and individually in the classroom. Any type of
movement in the direction of early intervention in relation to behavior is key and a step in
the right direction.
Conclusion
As a result of this Action Research Project, the teacher researcher has expanded
not only her understanding and knowledge of behavior intervention in the general
education classroom but the understanding of others. General education teachers, rather
then trying to ignore negative students behavior in the classroom or referring students to
special education for behavior, are able to use other strategies to decrease classroom
disruptions.
The ability to implement individualized behavior interventions are key in the
general education setting. Differentiation should not only be done for academics, but
-
7/30/2019 Edu 690 Final Amanda Bright Man
34/37
USING BEHAVIORAL INTERVENTION STRATEGIES IN THE CLASSROOM 34
behavior as well to cut back on special education referrals, increase engaged learning
time for all students and to keep students in the least restrictive environment. This Action
Research Project indicates that behavioral intervention in the classroom can be successful
in decreasing targeted behaviors, thus leading to increased student engagement time if
structured and adequate supports are available.
As part of the researchers action plan moving forward, district wide staff
development days will be made available to train willing staff in individual behavior plan
implementation. The current participating students will be followed through the
beginning of the next school year to help with the transition to a new teacher. A new set
of students with concerning behaviors will be targeted to work with during the next
school year. Whole school awareness of early behavioral interventions and school wide
behavior support plans will continue to be stressed. A RTI for behavior will be worked on
by the researcher and presented school wide with the help of administration in the years
to follow. The researcher looks forward to continuing to improve her behavior
interventions in the general education setting by working with teachers and
administration to make better, less restrictive learning environments for all students.
-
7/30/2019 Edu 690 Final Amanda Bright Man
35/37
USING BEHAVIORAL INTERVENTION STRATEGIES IN THE CLASSROOM 35
References
Codding, R. S., Feinburg, A. B., Dunn, E. K., & Pace, G. M. (2005). Effects
of immediate performance feedback on implementation of behavior
support plans.Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 38, 205-219.
Daniel, L., & King, D. (1997). Impact of inclusion on academicachievement,
student behavior, and self-esteem, and parental attitudes.The Journal of
Educational Research, 91(2), 67-80.
Kern, L., Childs, K. E., Dunlap, G., Clarke, S., & Falk, G. D. (1994). Using
assessment-based curricular intervention to improve the classroom
behavior of a student with emotional and behavioral challenges.Journal
of Applied Behavior Analysis, 27, 7-19.
Langdon, N., Carr, E., & Owen-DeSchryver, J. (2008). Functional analysis of
precursors for serious problem behavior and related intervention.
Behavior Modification, 32, 804-827.
Lassen, S. R., Steele, M. & Sailor, W. (2006). The relationship of school-wide
-
7/30/2019 Edu 690 Final Amanda Bright Man
36/37
positive behavior support to academic achievement in an urban middle
school. Psychology in the schools, 43(6), 701-712.
USING BEHAVIORAL INTERVENTION STRATEGIES IN THE CLASSROOM 36
Mills, G.E. (2011). Action research: A guide for the teacher researcher
4th edition. Boston, MA: Pearson.
Skinner, E., Belmont, A. & Michael J. (1993) Motivation in the classroom:
Reciprocal effects of teacher behavior and student engagement across the
school year. Journal of Educational Psychology, Vol 85(4)
Sugai, G. & Horner, R. H. (2006). A promising approach for expanding and
sustaining school-wide positive behavior support. School Psychology
Review, 35(2), 245-259.
Tillery, A., Varjas, K., Meyers, J. & Collins Smith, A. (2010). General
education teachers perceptions of behavior management and intervention
strategies.Journal of Positive Behavior Interventions, 12(2), 86-102.
-
7/30/2019 Edu 690 Final Amanda Bright Man
37/37