Behavior program shows promise

Researchers from the University of Western Sydney in Australia have publishednew research detailing a study of Positive Behavior for Learning (PBL), a schoolwide systemic approach to promoting both positive behaviors and student learning. PBL is based on Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports, one of the most widely used positive behavior programs in the U.S. It aims to establish strong systems that involve all staff and students, and to implement evidence-based practices that support behavior and learning.

The participants in this study were 2,129 students from 18 schools in Australia. A total of 827 boys and 888 girls from four primary and eight secondary schools implementing PBL (the experimental group) were compared with 188 boys and 226 girls from two primary and four secondary schools (the control group). 

Using a structural equation modeling technique to test group differences, the authors found that the students in schools that had implemented PBL for over nine months had higher scores in both self-reported behavioral and adaptive motivational factors. Specifically, they found higher scores in:

They conclude that PBL may benefit all students, but more work may be needed for boys.

Johns Hopkins University 

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