Using Clickers to Increase On-Task Behaviors of Middle School Students With Behavior Problems

Abstract

This study examined the effect of using a remote device, a Clicker, on the on-task behavior of middle school students with behavior problems. Five students with behavior problems participated in the study. A single-subject research design with ABAB (phase A: baseline 1, phase B: intervention 1, phase A: baseline 2, phase B: intervention 2) phases was used. During the baseline, students’ on-task behavior was recorded in both language and math classes. During the intervention, students were provided a Clicker to answer questions. The Clicker was withdrawn after 5 days of intervention, then returned to the students following the same procedures in the previous intervention. Results showed that students’ on-task behavior increased as well as their academic performance when Clickers were applied. A follow-up interview indicated that students were satisfied with the Clicker and preferred to use this device in class.

Keywords:

• behavior problems
• middle school students
• on-task behavior
• technology

Acknowledgement

The authors thank Dr. Frank X. Sutman for his review and comments on the article revision.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Joy F. Xin

Joy F. Xin is a professor at Rowan University. Her current research interests are instructional technology, students with special needs, and behavior management.

Mary L. Johnson

Mary L. Johnson is a special education teacher of Fairfield Township School, Bridgeton, New Jersey. She is interested in using technology in her classroom to teach students with special needs.