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An Introduction toJacob KouninPresented 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, 1995Palm Beach, FL (age 83)

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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…

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“Ripple Effect”…

When one student’s behavior is corrected it often influences nearby students’ behavior

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Effective classroom managers…

PREVENT problems before they happen

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5 Componentsof “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…