The student is receiving reinforcement for incorrect performance

As in other statements,  this may be an issue of reliability, an issue of poorly defined behaviors within objectives, or simply that the teacher is not being rigorous enough in requiring students to perform at a certain level.  Remember consequences for behavior, be they positive or negative must be immediate, consistent and contingent.

Potential Remedy

Special ed teachers should not be in the habit of using the phrase, "That's close enough."  If behaviors are designed specifically enough, the student will have performed the behavior or not have performed.  Teachers who say something is "close enough" need to go back to their objectives and firm them up so they can say "that's it" or "that's not it."

You can email Dr. McNair at jmcnair@calbaptist.edu

Copyright Jeff McNair/jeffmcnair.com