THE IMPACT OF BEHAVIORAL CONTRACTS ON STUDENT-TEACHERS VERBAL FEEDBACK

The purpose of this study was to examine the effectiveness of behavior al contracts on the verbal feedback of preservice teachers. A multiple baseline design across subjects was used to determine the relationshi p between behavioral contracts and feedback statements. Baseline data were collected on the verbal feedback of three preservice teachers. Th e results of the data were discussed by the student teacher and the un iversity supervisor. An area of weakness was identified and a mutually agreed upon objective was written to enhance the weak area. A behavio ral contract was then developed identifying each person's role in the achievement of the objective. Effectiveness of the intervention was ba sed on the degree of change in level between baseline and intervention phases, and the achievement of the stated objective. Results indicate d the intervention had a positive effect on the verbal feedback of pre service teachers. Although the objective was not achieved in all cases , feedback levels were enhanced following intervention.