Teachers of every subject, level and range of experience utilize­­ methods and approaches for managing student behavior in the classroom, with the goal of maximizing student learning and minimizing disruptions and other undesirable outcomes. The question of the best approach or method has been widely debated in education field, with scholars such as Wong & Wong (2008) arguing that successful classroom and behavior management begins the first days of school, as the teacher establishes a foundation of routines, with an emphasis on engaging classroom activities and well planned lessons as the key to success. The field of child and adolescent development psychology takes behavior management further, inviting teachers to explore how to cultivate curiosity and promote and sustain deep learning (Ostroff, 2016).  With this knowledge and best practices, teachers continue to face challenges and questions about behavior management, especially for adolescent learners (age 11 – 17). In the 21^st century context, students of all ages are engaging more with technology, social media and other stimuli than previous generations, which can enhance the learning experience, but also present competition for classroom engagement.

This workshop presentation addresses classroom and behavior management for adolescent learners. Teachers will have the opportunity to review our understanding of social, emotional and academic development of adolescents, discuss motivations for student behaviors and practice methods for classroom and behavior management. In conclusion, this workshop, by closely examining the relationship between the psychology of adolescents’ motivation to learn and the methods teachers can utilize in the classroom in line with physical, mental, emotional and social development of adolescents, will provide teachers with an opportunity to deepen their understanding of the behavior of adolescents and practice methods of behavior and classroom management to utilize in their teaching settings.