Twenty Ten

A while back we had the pleasure of Jason Bangbala for INSET. He is an ‘expert’ in behavior management, although he wisely states that nobody can actually claim that status.
His delivery style is pretty much stand up comedian, with lots of anecdotal stories. The best thing about the whole day was that you didn’t feel like you were being preached too, but instead given a refresher course on behavior management and common sense.

If you decided to take on board his strategies it was easy to see how they could have an impact. Some of his statements were obviously going to make some staff feel uncomfortable.

For me the most powerful message he gave is below.

“The zone of influence are all those you can influence to have a positive impact on pupil performance  like having positive relationships, establishing ground rules, having clear instructions, making lessons interesting and engaging, being assertive, praising, rewarding etc.

The zone of control are those things beyond your control that you have no influence on such as class sizes, time of the lessons, where they live, what their diet they eat, how long you have been teaching them, whether they have learning difficulties, what their family background is etc.

The most effective staff will focus on the zone of influence and look at things they can do to make an impact.

The least effective staff will look at the zone of concern as they will make excuses that the reason why pupils perform the way they do is beyond their control and has nothing to do with their attitude and skills.

For me the zone of influence is the key because in the vast majority of cases the same pupils with the same baggage will significantly perform differently from one member of staff to another. It is therefore our competence that is the biggest factor in pupil performance. This is where the quote of the teacher as the decisive element is the basis of everything.”

However, some of his other hints and tips are also powerful tools in dealing with behaviour management…

1. Praise, praise, praise and more praise.  Do not underestimate the power of praise.  Praise has a massive impact on behaviour management and pupil self esteem. You cannot praise too much. For some reason the British psyche is set up to be critical first….this is a shame.  If your Head of Dept or Head teacher told you how well you were doing, would you like that? would you want it to occur infrequently?…its the same with our kids.  Use postcards, stamps, tell them… but back it up.  Kids aren’t stupid, make sure your praise has meaning and purpose
2. “What should you be doing?” – use this instead of “what are you doing?”..the second statement will probably get an honest answer rather than the pupil going back on task.   I have used this lots and it works everytime
3. Maybe…but.  Pupils making silly statements…  Maybe that’s true, BUT I’d like you to get on with your work…

There are lots more..I will probably add them in time, but to be honest I do not do Jason justice.  Your best bet is to get him into your school.  It is one of the most influential INSETS I have attended. If you want more info go to his website.

misterel Resources, Teaching & Learning Bangbala movemeon behaviour management