Contracts

Are contracts possible as effective classroom management for all learning styles?

According to B&S, a Contract consists of "a statement of behaviours that will not be condoned and the consequences that will follow if the student chooses to engage in those behaviours” (p 295). I believe creating contracts with students is an important part of establishing effective classroom management. Contracts are used to clearly address ongoing behaviour problems by reinforcing consequences and rewards. In order for students to benefit from contracts, they must accommodate the students’ specific learning needs. I believe this is entirely possible as long as teachers take the time to get to know his/her students as individuals. Furthermore, I think it is important to involve the student and their parents in writing the contract. The student should help come up with consequences and rewards. I think this process helps the student learn to self-regulate because he/she understands how his/her behaviour affects other students and the teacher.

On another note I came across a useful acronym to help make personal goals more achievable. The acronym SMART stands for:
• S Specific
• M Measurable
• A Achievable
• R Relevant (reason – know why the contract is in place)
• T Time related (i.e. achieved within a certain time frame)

I think this acronym can help students establish what kinds of goals are appropriate and attainable. I think by referring to a “SMART Behaviour Contract,” students will less likely associate it with something that is negative. Instead, the contract is a way to help students achieve success in their learning. Sort of like an Informal Action Plan in PDP! Or so they say.