What is a Problem Solving Conference?
The problem solving conference is a strategy utilized by teachers to address a presently occurring problem with a single student. It is initiated by the teacher who will begin a dialogue with the student. This type of conference is always between the teacher and one individual student, for problems involving multiple students a problem solving conference would not be used. During a problem solving conference the teacher and student work collaboratively to identify the problem behavior, diagnose the cause of the problem, and create a plan for solving the the problem. The aim of every problem solving conference is for the student to be self-reflective, to accept responsibility for the problem behavior, and to actively work toward changing the behavior.
How is a Problem Solving Conference Concluded?
There are two possible outcomes of a problem solving conference,some result in a quick solution to the problem, the problem behavior is resolved and no further action is needed. Other times, the conference is just the beginning of a longer dialogue. For persistent problem behaviors other adults (e.g. colleagues, guidance counsellors, special educators, or administrators) may become involved and other responsive classroom strategies such as logical consequences, loss of privilege, a problem solving meeting at home, or a behavior plan may be required.
Which Behaviors are Best Handled with a Problem Solving Conference?
Academic Problems - When a student’s work does not meet the teacher’s expectations a problem solving conference might be the best solution. Examples include unfinished work, difficulty starting work, and careless or thoughtless work.
Disruptive Behaviors - When a student’s actions are distracting classmates or interfering with the teacher’s ability to give instruction a problem solving conference can be used. Examples include inability to remain seated, frequent calling out, or demanding constant attention.
Social Issues - When a student’s actions alienate other or make them feel uncomfortable a possible remedy can be to make the student aware of the problem at a conference. Examples include tattling, demonstrating poor sportsmanship, forming cliques, or making excessive demands of a friends time/attention.
Defiance toward Authority - When a student chooses to ignore directions or defy rules/instructions, especially when this behavior repeats itself, a problem solving conference ought to be used. Examples include arguing, talking back, rude looks or remarks, or ignoring directions.
Disruptive Behaviors - When a student’s actions are distracting classmates or interfering with the teacher’s ability to give instruction a problem solving conference can be used. Examples include inability to remain seated, frequent calling out, or demanding constant attention.
Social Issues - When a student’s actions alienate other or make them feel uncomfortable a possible remedy can be to make the student aware of the problem at a conference. Examples include tattling, demonstrating poor sportsmanship, forming cliques, or making excessive demands of a friends time/attention.
Defiance toward Authority - When a student chooses to ignore directions or defy rules/instructions, especially when this behavior repeats itself, a problem solving conference ought to be used. Examples include arguing, talking back, rude looks or remarks, or ignoring directions.
Steps in a Problem Solving Conference
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- Talk about the problem area: what the teacher notices, what the student notices.
- Name the behavior as a problem and explain why it’s a problem.
- Invite the student to work with the teacher on correcting the problem.
- Examine the causes of the problem.
- Articulate a clear and specific goal for the student and teacher to work on together.
- Brainstorm solutions, select one to try first.
- Set a time for a follow-up meeting to check in and see how things are going.
For more information visit responsiveclassroom.org or read more about Problem Solving Conferences in these articles: responsiveclassroom.org/sites/default/files/SolvingThornyBehaviorProblems-Ch2.pdf ; responsiveclassroom.org/article/teacher-child-problem-solving-conferences
Information from Solving Thorny Behavior Problems, by Caltha Crowe. ©2009 Northeast Foundation for Children, Inc. All right reserved.
Information from Solving Thorny Behavior Problems, by Caltha Crowe. ©2009 Northeast Foundation for Children, Inc. All right reserved.