While at school, we have learned about many different philosophies when it comes to dealing with student's behavior. There are some philosophies that are very stringent and harsh, and some that are really wishy-washy and too lenient. Personally I believe that Lee Canter's positive reinforcement and assertive discipline work best for the entire spectrum of students. In order to teach successfully, a teacher must have circumstances that make it possible to learn. These circumstances should be planned and dynamic according to the students you are teaching at the time. Every situation, class, year, grade etc is different so it is important to have a plan that works well for you. My views on behaviorism stem from readings, classes and workshops along with experience in clinicals and at my student teaching site where positive reinforcement is part of their motto.
One saying I will walk away from my student teaching with is, "3=33."�
Canter's
Betonwerksteinskulptur "Lehrer-Student" von Reinha...My supervising teacher, taught me that 3 weeks of hitting rules, procedures and consequences, will equal 33 weeks of smooth instruction. Although it has taken 4 weeks, we now have very well behaved students who know exactly what is expected of them the second they walk in the door. In my Middle School Model class, our teacher addressed the issue of discipline as well as some of his teachers that we were able to speak with. It turns out that most teachers, especially new teachers, fear discipline and management; whereas the students seem to respond well and want a structured and fair system they can follow. From the literature I have read, and the people I have listened to, it seems to me that the ultimate goal in teaching and working on procedures and rules should be so that students develop their own self-discipline and move away from...