Observation and documentation serve several purposes in the classroom. First, the educator is able to make sound decisions about the child and the best course of action to follow to improve his educational experience. Secondly, the teacher can identify specific areas of concern, which need to be addressed. Finally, the educator can implement strategic methods of intervention to correct deficient behaviors or gaps in learning.
When teachers need to correct behavior, they can do so privately, if possible. When speaking with parents, teachers also need to point out the student's positive behaviors. Educators can tell parents what has worked in class and what has not been effective. They can reinforce positive behaviors in the classroom by giving out appropriate rewards.
Generally, children respond better to the reinforcement of positive behaviors instead of the punishment of negative behaviors. All types of reinforcements work with children, depending on the student and his personality. Some like gifts they choose each week such as a prize or a sticker. Others enjoy time with the teacher. Extra recess, free time or computer usage motivates others. Some respond well to a simple pat on the shoulder, a hug or verbal encouragement. Effective teachers combine these reinforcements to create a positive classroom environment for all students.
This approach works with the classroom teacher to encourage positive behavior. From the lunchroom to the playground to the bus driver, the school works as a whole to introduce, demonstrate and reinforce positive behavior across the campus. This creates an atmosphere of common practices implemented in all classrooms and areas that support the overall goal of the positive classroom. Effective communication throughout the school contributes to this paradigm shift from a negative focus to positive reinforcement.