Implementing a Token Economy in the Classroom

Introduction

Welcome to my mini-course. This course is designed for novice teachers who are looking for a new classroom
management technique. Participants will look at the theory behind developing a token-economy in the classroom
and reflect on ways to adapt those economies to fit the need of the twenty-first century classroom. Upon
completion of this course, participants will have a unique plan for implementing a token-economy in their
classroom that is based on the ideas, principles, and reflections learned through the following units.

Topics that will be covered:

• What is a token economy?

• How can a token economy be effective in the classroom?

• What does a token economy look like?

• How can educators use tokens to correct or promote positive student behavior?

• What are some criticisms of a token economy system?

• How can a token economy be adapted to a twenty-first century classroom?

• What are examples of "tokens" that can be used in the classroom?

• How can tokens be used to increase student motivation?

• How can a token economy be modified for individual student needs?

Course Units

This mini-course includes the following units. Click the title of a unit to go to its page.

Unit 1: What does a token economy look like?

   Lesson 1: What does a token economy look like in theory?
      Objectives: Participants will be able to
                  1) Identify the uses of a token economy in the classroom 
                  2) Analyze the purpose of the token economy through written response questions after reading two theory articles
                  3) Identify three criticisms of the token economy in the classroom and reflect on these ideas
                  4) Evaluate one way to use the token economy to meet the needs of a twenty-first century classroom
   Lesson 2: What does a token economy look like in practice?'
      Objectives: Participants will be able to
                  1. Compare two examples of the uses of the token economy in the classroom after reading an article and watching two short video clips
                  2. Analyze the needs of their classroom based on age and resources
                  3. Identify two examples of "tokens"that can be used in the classroom

Unit 2: How can I design, implement, and modify a token economy in my classroom?

     Lesson 1: What do I need to design an effective token economy?
      Objectives: Participants will be able to
                  1) Sign up for a Class Dojo Account
                  2) Generate a list identifying at least two desired behaviors in their classrooms 
                  3) Plan tokens and reinforcers for those behaviors
      Lesson 2: How do I implement and modify a token economy to meet the needs of my students?'
      Objectives: Participants will be able to
                  1) Create their token economy by completing a planning sheet
                  2) Make at least one modification to meet the needs of their individual students.
                  3) Reflect on the implementation of their plan'