Sense of Context

As reflective scholar-practitioners, teacher
candidates develop a Sense of Context
characterized by the ability to critically
examine varied systems and settings in
which teaching and learning takes place.
This includes an exploration of the cultures
of individuals, families, learning settings,
communities; a study of relationships and
communication within and across settings;
and an examination of past, present, and
future influences on individuals, families,
learning settings, communities, and the
broader society.

MEES Standard 5: Positive Classroom Environment

The teacher uses an
understanding of individual/group
motivation and behavior to create a learning
environment that encourages active
engagement in learning, positive social
interaction, and self-motivation.

Behavior Change Project

Link to Project

Description

This was a semester-long project in which a focus student in a secondary special education setting’s behavior was observed. The student’s behavior was analyzed in an attempt to create interventions for increased student success in the classroom. Data was collected and analyzed to create and study the effects of intervention.

Alignment with Theme/MEES

As stated in Standard 5, the student’s individual motivation and outside influences were studied and acknowledged in order to push them to success. A deeper and more holistic understanding of their behavior was considered. The goal of the project was to positively impact the student’s experiences in the classroom and to increase their self-confidence.

Reflection

This project required me to view student behavior as one piece of the puzzle and to truly understand the function of the behavior I had to look at factors outside of the actual behavior. I got to really know and understand the student on a deeper level and build a relationship on mutual trust and respect. This relationship gave me the opportunity to learn about what motivates them and then in turn to use that to challenge them. Together this student and I were able to collaborate and create a success plan for them.

Connection to Goals

All students will have outside factors that affect their classroom performance and how they show up. This is important for me to understand and continue to work on understanding all the different aspects that make up a student and their behavior. One of my goals is to view students’ behavior as a form of communication and to challenge them to channel it in healthy ways.