The “workclock”: An alternative to token economies in the management of classroom behaviors

A set of procedures for modifying the behavior of an entire class is described. The procedures involve a five-day “workclock” phase in which free time is contingent on attending behavior of the entire class while nonattending behaviors are consequated by a “strike” and time-out procedure. The second phase retains the time-out procedures while making free time contingent on individual assignment completion. The results of applying these procedures in seven classrooms as part of a larger study suggests they are effective in increasing positive classroom behavior for both referred and nonreferred students. The procedures are offered as an alternative to token economies because of the reduced amount of teacher time required, the immediacy of their effect, and the ease of withdrawal.