Descriptive Reflection
Behavioural psychotherapist William Glasser developed a model of behavioural therapy he renamed Choice Theory in 1998. Choice Theory was originally designed for use by anyone who worked in a social profession. More recently Glasser’s theory has been revamped for specific use in school environments. Choice Theory works on the basis that almost all behaviour is chosen. Glasser argues that when an individual consciously takes responsibility for their chosen behaviour they begin to actively engage with a more positive approach to daily life (Wikipedia, 2007). In his book Control Theroy Glasser argues that we spend too much time on discipline in schools when rather we should be concentrating on effective learning strategies. He suggests that effective education is about “using and improving knowledge” and advocates a policy of open learning in schools. Glasser lists seven caring habits that when utilised by teachers will help produce strong peer and student/teacher relationships and create a constructive learning environment.
Critical Reflection
Behavioural psychotherapist William Glasser developed a model of behavioural therapy he renamed Choice Theory in 1998. Choice Theory was originally designed for use by anyone who worked in a social profession. More recently Glasser’s theory has been revamped for specific use in school environments. Choice Theory works on the basis that almost all behaviour is chosen. Glasser argues that when an individual consciously takes responsibility for their chosen behaviour they begin to actively engage with a more positive approach to daily life (Wikipedia, 2007). In his book Control Theroy Glasser argues that we spend too much time on discipline in schools when rather we should be concentrating on effective learning strategies. He suggests that effective education is about “using and improving knowledge” and advocates a policy of open learning in schools. Glasser lists seven caring habits that when utilised by teachers will help produce strong peer and student/teacher relationships and create a constructive learning environment.
Critical Reflection
In theory Glasser’s model of behavioural therapy seems reasonable and even achievable. However, there are issues about the overall effectiveness regarding the actual implementation of his theory. Unless all children are to be schooled in a Glasser quailty school from a very early age the idea of “open learning” risks gaps in their education. Open learning possesses potential time management problems and could lead to an increase in learning diversity ranges within a class. In Critera for a Quality School Glasser proposes that trust and respect eliminate discipline problems, but not incidents. Kids will be kids. Although the concept of encouraging positive attitudes is a good idea it is not realistic to expect all school age children to actively engage with this theory. Glasser also fails to acknowledge external influences and pressures such as individual temperament, hormonal changes in adolescents, economic stresses at home etc.
References
No comments:
Post a Comment