A Resource for Teachers and School Learning Support Officers

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Student Services Riverina Region For School Learning Support Officers Working towards Positive Student Behavior Student behaviour is a major concern to staff because of its importance in establishing a positive learning environment. The following strategies in conjunction with established classroom rules, procedures and teacher direction, may be useful techniques to consider: Planned Ignoring Sometimes the most effective way to deal with student misbehaviour is to ignore it. This is a good strategy when the behaviour is unintentional or it does not interfere with the student’s learning, or endanger another student or adult. Provide Cues or Prompts This technique works best when it is non verbal and includes the use of visuals. It can redirect a student towards the expected behaviour or task without engaging in a verbal interaction. However, it is vital that the student has been instructed on the use of visuals and what the desirable behaviour is/or looks like beforehand. Proximity Control Proximity can be used as another non-verbal prompt. Moving closer to a student helps them stay on task because of your proximity to them. Be sure to be mindful of the student’s personal space. Time to Decide Try giving choices, but limit to two, so that the students have a sense of control in their learning. Allow time and space for the students to respond. Partial Assistance Students may have difficulties remaining on task because they may be experiencing difficulties in understanding the directions. Providing support by re-wording the instructions may assist the student get back on task. Some other points to remember are: • Be calm and objective • Determine the facts rather than the opinions. • Take the offender aside and speak to him/her in private • Be consistent, honest and fair in your dealings with all students • Stop the little things that might escalate • Always ignore the things that don’t matter. • Seek advice when needed. • Always follow through with what you say. • Avoid sarcasm or ridicule as a means of punishment. • Drop the matter when it is settled • Always keep your sense of humour. Riverina SLSO Guidelines 2012. Adapted from Illawarra and South Region J.Agzarian 24
Student Services Riverina Region For School Learning Support Officers Dealing with Difficult Student behaviour Strategies to prevent a situation from escalating: • Give space – don’t crowd • Remain calm • Speak slowly and clearly • Keep your language short and simple • Give clear directions one at a time – might need to be repeated • Use non – threatening body language and tone of voice • Think of a plan: environment/ other students/ staff available • Be patient • Be flexible – but consistent • Redirect or use distractions • Give realistic choices • Don’t take it personally • Think – ‘could it have been worse’ • Discuss consequences later • Remove stimulus e.g other students, loud noises, equipment • Assess the level of cooperation • Use humour if possible • Physical activity can redirect a student – run a message • Ignore secondary behaviours • Allow routines to be completed • Prevention is definitely the best cure Confrontation leads to escalation! Riverina SLSO Guidelines 2012. Adapted from Illawarra and South Region J.Agzarian 25
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A Resource for Teachers and School Learning Support Officers

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