Abstract

The present study aims to identify the types and levels of disruptive behaviours among students in classroom and the levels of negative reinforcement approaches practiced by teachers in managing and tackling these disruptive behaviours. A total of 119 teachers from four national secondary schools in Zone A, Miri, Sarawak were selected. Questionnaire was used to collect data and the data was analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics (one-way ANOVA). The research findings indicated that; (a) absenteeism especially entering classes late, and (b) defiance in classroom in which the learners refuse to join any social game activities conducted in classroom were among the highest disruptive behaviours displayed by the learners in classroom at the national secondary schools. The result of the present study also indicated the practice of negative reinforcement approach in the form of warning was higher than other forms of approaches (scolding and punishment). There was a significant difference with regard to the practice of negative reinforcement approach based on the teachers’ years of teaching experience. Implications of the current study towards teaching practice and educational policy are also discussed.

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