Chapter 2: Building the Foundation 

B.F. Skinner- Operant Conditioning or Behavioral Modification 

Theory: Skinner’s theory of operant conditioning suggests that appropriate and immediate reinforcements in the form of rewards strengthens the likelihood that appropriate behavior will be repeated. 

Pros: Rewards strengthen the likelihood appropriate behaviors will reoccur throughout the classroom. 

Cons: This theory is not based on work inside a classroom, but rather in a scientific laboratory. Therefore, this theory suggests punishment in the classroom is not an effective technique for ratifying inappropriate behavior. 

Rewards are not effective because they are an enticement rather than an internal motivation to behave in a conducive manner. 

The positive reward system requires reinforcement to make certain positive behaviors continue. 

This theory does not take into account the “melting pot” of cultures and socioeconomic groups represented in the classroom, and how rewards and competition may isolate some students. 

Fritz Redl and William W. Wattenberg - Group Dynamics or Group Life in the Classroom 

Theory: Group life management theory suggests that individual behaviors of students has direct correlation on the entire classroom environment. Within a classroom, students assume hierarchical roles that promote inappropriate behavior that spread throughout the classroom. This theory advocates individualistic control, by teachers encouraging self control and providing situational assistance to off task students, students can regain their positive behavior. 

Pros: This theory has the potential of promoting safe schools and a creating a positive classroom environment if implemented correctly. 

Cons: The instructional techniques of supporting self-control and situational assistance implemented by teachers can be disrespectful and insulting to certain cultures. If the teacher is not cognizant of appropriate management techniques for the group, issues may escalate into a dangerous situation. 

William Glasser- Choice Theory 

Based on Glasser’s choice theory, he believed that students have five basic psychological needs that must be met in order for them to demonstrate appropriate behaviors. 

Pros: This theory considers student’s psychological needs and promotes positive change in poor behaviors when close relationships are formed between the teacher and the student. 

Cons: Premise focused on juvenile offenders rather than the typical problems that occur in a classroom setting. Also, implementation of this theory can be offensive to some Asian students who respect their elder’s opinions and views or those that assume submissive roles in their culture.

Thomas Gordon- Discipline as Self-Control 

Theory:Gordon’s theory suggests teachers need to be effective mangers of their classroom by identifying problems that promote inappropriate behaviors and making changes to promote a positive classroom environment. Also, teachers need to sensitive to students specific needs and attentive to what students have to say. 

Pros: As a result of the implementation of this theory, positive student-teacher relationships are formed which create respect between the teacher and the student and a positive classroom environment is created. If behavior issues occur it is not the teacher’s fault, but the sole responsibility of the student to correct. This theory is not offensive to any culture or learning disabled child. 

Cons: Gordon’s theories are less effective when serious