Tracking+and+Measuring+Behavior

= Tracking and Measuring Behavior =

Classroom teachers and their students with emotional and behavioral disorders generate data for a variety of reasons. Due to the demands of their daily routine they continually seek easier and better ways to develop data generation systems that are easy to use in their busy classroom environments. Furthermore, students can learn how to monitor their own behavior (Alberto & Troutman, 2006). There are a number of tools that can help meet the demands associated with monitoring classroom behavior.

No Tech Tools and Strategies

 * Jacob Kounin (1970) reported that successful teachers used management methods that naturally prevented problems from occurring and engaged students in instructional activities for longer periods of time. Successful classroom managers anticipated problems before they occurred and implemented **proactive strategies** to keep students actively involved in academic tasks. Over time, other researchers have confirmed Kounin's findings (Brophy & Evertson, 1976; Gettinger, 1988; Jones & Jones, 1995). The same teaching strategies that reduce classroom disruption are also associated with increases in student learning (Brophy & Evertson, 1976).
 * **Experience, and ongoing dialogue** with other teaching colleagues can help you incorporate information about effective classroom management into your daily work.

Light Tech Tools and Strategies

 * use paper-based charting systems available for free download
 * polyxo
 * Columbia County Schools
 * VerbalBehavior Wiki

Mid Tech Tools and Strategies

 * **Stop Watch or Timer**- There is an array of stop-watches and timers that the teacher or the student may use during tasks that require measurement of time intervals. Be aware that you don't want any tool that would potentially draw unnecessary attention to the student.
 * Time Timer: A Time Timer or other visual timer may be used to let the student know how much time is remaining. This is especially helpful if the student does not like the task very well or is eager for the next task.
 * WatchMinder: This special wristwatch is a reminder device that the student wears to help in a variety of ways. It has a silent vibrator alarm system (similar to that of a common pager), an eight-character display for messages, 16 daily alarm settings, as well as training and reminder modes. It can be preset with specific behavioral reminders for certain activities or times of day when the student typically has difficulties. The entire day can be programmed with numerous messages [[image:AP_VisualTimerLG.jpg width="140" height="105" align="right"]]displayed at the appropriate times.
 * Visual Timer- You set the timer by turning a dial to the desired number of minutes. The time you set shows up in red and as time counts down, the red goes away. There are several versions to choose from, including one for the computer, one that has an audible“beep” at the end of the timer and one without a beep.

High Tech Tools and Strategies

 * A variety of **"smart" devices** are currently available that enable a range of monitoring strategies for numerous classroom behaviors. These hand-held devices can be programmed to collect data on student behavior. For example, a Palm Pixi or iPod Touch (all "smart" devices have apps to download for monitoring and measuring behavior) device could be programmed to measure a specific student's behavior to assist in tracking and developing a behavior intervention plan or determine the effectiveness over time of a plan already in place.
 * **Apps for iOS, Blackberry and Android** **devices**
 * **Behavior Tracker Pro**
 * **Tallymander**
 * **TallyCount**
 * [|iearnedthat-lite] (Free/ Full Version $1.99) Helps children develop desirable behaviors by working towards tangible goals. Choose a behavior for the child. Do not interrupt for 15 minutes during a 45-minute class period. Student then takes a picture of what he or she wants, such as computer time. The picture is broken down into puzzle pieces. Each time the student is successful, he or she adds another piece. Upon completion of the puzzle student receives an award. The app is good for all ages.
 * [|ireward] $4.99 A motivational tool for iPhone, iPod Touch, or iPad. Create a star chart or token board to help reinforce positive behaviors using visual rewards. This type of praise or approval will help parents of typically developing children, children with autism, developmental delays, ADHD, and anxiety disorders.
 * [|Homeroutines] $3.99 This app can be customized for any age. Create routine checklists, then complete them on chosen days of the week, with reminder notifications, and a gold star for each completed task. Checklists can automatically reset.
 * [|Alarmed-reminder timers] Free Pop up reminder alerts. Includes 80 custom sounds, Nag me for auto repeating. Great for students to help remind them when they need to bring something to school.
 * [|ADHD organizer] $1.99 Lets users set goals and record their success. Includes a memory bank section for thing frequently forgotten.
 * [|Audio-notes recorder] $2.99 Record notes and export by email. Great for students who need to remember something without having to write it down.
 * [|Event Countdown] $1.99 This is great for students who need to keep track of assignments. App shows remaining days, hours and minutes until the date.
 * [|Audionote recorder-notepad] $4.99 Combines the functionality of a notepad and voice recorder.
 * **Get Em On Task** **-** Teach students to self-manage their behavior with this easy-to-use computer cueing program. Allows teachers to create a signal system to help students monitor their own behavior. The system can be used for one student or a group and supports any positive reinforcement or self-management program. ($)
 * **Microsoft Excel** - teachers can create spreadsheets that they can use to enter performance data as it is obtained, and have charts or graphs displayed immediately, such that, student progress can be visually presented.
 * KidTools Support System (KTSS) - The KidTools Support System (KTSS) is a federally-funded project to provide performance support software for children, ages 7-13, who have learning disabilities and/or emotional and behavioral problems. The KTSS software includes a library of tools provided as easy-to-use templates for children to personalize and use independently in school and home settings. The KidTools program includes template tools to assist children in self-management, problem solving, and making plans and contracts. KidSkills includes organizational and planning tools and a variety of learning strategies. Accompanying databases for adults, Tool Resources and Skill Resources, provide tool overviews, examples of completed tools, and tips for implementation. Software is presently available in CD format and in downloadable versions from this web site. Orientation materials, practice activities, implementation videos, discussion lists, and user supports are provided for adults who assist children in learning and using these tools.