+ An Introduction to Jacob Kounin Presented by Jim Horwat

+ Who was Jacob Kounin? Prominent 1970s Educational Theorist Born January 17, 1912 Cleveland, OH Earned PhD from Iowa State University Employed as Educational Psychologist at Wayne State University, Detroit, MI Married to an elementary school teacher Died October 7, 1995 Palm Beach, FL (age 83)

+ Jacob Kounin’s Key Concept … Utilize Discipline and Instruction AS ONE

+ ‘Discipline and Group Management in Classrooms’ Kounin’s famous book (1977) Collected his research studies on classroom organization and management skills Analyzed teachers’ techniques from videotaped classrooms Revealed an unexpected observation…

+ “Ripple Effect”… When one student’s behavior is corrected it often influences nearby students’ behavior

+ Effective classroom managers… PREVENT problems before they happen

+ 5 Components of “Lesson Movement” Necessary for balance of classroom management AND teaching…

+ 1. With-it-ness – What is going on in ENTIRE classroom at all times? – Let students know the teacher “does not miss a thing”. – “Perception” is key; Ok to bluff. – Use caution with interventions; potential for timing and targeting errors.

+ Tips for Developing “With-it-ness” skills Establish eye contact with all students in classroom Use nonverbal cues to demonstrate alertness, interest and sense of caring Get acquainted with students (i.e. learn their interests, strengths, weaknesses, habits, learning styles) Communicate and maintain expectations. No surprises.

+ 2. Overlapping – i.e. “Multi-tasking” – Preparation is key. – Have plan for students who finish assignments in class early. – Keep students constructively occupied while assisting slower students individually.

+ 3. Momentum – SHORT lectures are ideal and more effective. – Prevent boredom. – Keep appropriate pace. – Use a timer or stopwatch if necessary for time management.

+ 4. Smoothness – A thoroughly planned lesson will achieve smoothness naturally. – Stay on track; avoid tangents, diversions, irrelevant questions. – Don’t leave lessons hanging. – Don’t switch back and forth from one subject or activity to another.

+ 5. Group Focus – Engage all students in each lesson. – Foster accountability and responsibility. – Keep students anticipating next activity. Build suspense. – Master subtle art of asking class questions. Watch their responses.

+ Final Thoughts on Kounin Consistency and Organization Skills Needed for Positive Results. Kounin’s ideas are effective in classroom management if used consistently. Organization central to success. Skills require time and practice to build. Vintage clip from a master…