The Teacher Does Not Use Signals

The Teacher Does Not Use Signals

Using signals in the classroom is a discrete and effective way to prevent problem behaviours from progressing. When teachers do not use signals in the classroom to communicate expectations with students, they need to rely heavily on verbal or reactive techniques to address misbehaviour. 

The teacher 

• does not use simple and discrete cues such as hand gestures or visual aids to provide students with information about their behaviour
• hinders their rapport with students by calling attention to negative behaviour
• does not meet with individual students to create unique communication signals or makes confidential signals known to the rest of the class
• does not practice signals with students so they understand the meaning behind them
• does not combine gestures with direct eye contact
• does not use signals with individual students, small and large groups. 

The students

• are not reassured or redirected when they are struggling to resent rules and routines
• are unmotivated to engage with the material 
• do not retain information  
• do not build communication skills.