Behavior Management

Example Strategies:

Clearly communicate to students what they are expected to do to complete their work and why. This includes providing clear (ideally written and oral/recorded) procedures for completing class assignments, turning in homework, and working in groups.³

For virtual learning settings, keep consistent routines, schedules, and methods for participating in remote learning. Consider developing a virtual learning matrix that clearly communicates what is expected of students as they engage in the virtual classroom.⁴

Example Strategies:

Use a strengths’ focus to support the development of positive behaviors. For example, create positive classroom roles for students, such as leading an activity that aligns with their strengths and interests.¹

Help students who display disruptive behavior develop alternative behaviors.¹ For example, post key classroom rules, agreements, and procedures in visible locations as a reminder of class expectations, and emphasize that behaviors are choices that students have control over.³ Be mindful of how implicit biases may lead to stereotyping and unfair disciplinary practices, particularly for racial and ethnic minority students who experience disproportionately negative disciplinary actions.⁵

In virtual settings, consider using virtual tools that provide students with immediate behavioral feedback and reinforcement. Some schools may have software programs that instantly provide students with feedback on their behavior, and allow students to view that feedback through a smartphone app. Alternatively, behavioral feedback can be tracked in a simple spreadsheet or document and constructive feedback can be delivered to students who are not meeting expectations via a one-on-one virtual check in.⁶

Example Strategies:

Be consistent and predictable when enforcing class rules to eliminate the perception of favoritism and emphasize fairness. Make sure all students receive the same consequences (consistency) every time (predictability) and positively reinforce prosocial behaviors often for all students.³

Example Strategies:

Set clear, logical consequences for breaking class rules and agreements early on. Be mindful of the difference between logical consequences (which are directly linked to students’ behavior and focus on corrective guidance and modelling to promote learning and behavior change) and punishment (which focus on short-term compliance).⁷ Make sure students always have access to the rules and consequences (e.g., every student gets a copy, posted in the physical classroom or on an online platform), and consider reviewing the rules and consequences periodically, as needed.³

In virtual classrooms, ensure that students know the positive and negative consequences of their virtual actions. Also, make sure that class rules and consequences are equitable, regardless of students’ home environment and resources. For example, some students may have unreliable internet service or may not have needed materials or devices for virtual learning, which could make active engagement in lessons difficult.⁶