The effectiveness of a classroom wide incentive program to eliminate disruptive and negative behavior in the preschool setting

Abstract

A classwide behavioral intervention was conducted in Lake Erie preschool to eliminate disruptive and negative behavior in the classroom. As a result of classroom dynamics constantly changing, the most important skill that a teacher must possess is effective classroom management. As a group, students were given an opportunity to earn 6 rewards throughout the day for maintaining positive behavior. Students who displayed disruptive, negative or distracted behaviors at any point during the day were given six opportunities to start over and correct their behaviors. Observational data was collected on the frequency of these behaviors during circle time and seat work time. Two independent observers recorded this data on students' behavior four separate times over a one month period. Anecdotal notes were also recorded to give the researcher insight on student behavior when a color change occurred due to undesired behaviors. In conclusion, it was determined that this intervention was an effective method in reducing disruptive, negative, and distracted behavior in the preschool classroom. [from abstract]