ClassDojo: The Controversy of Behaviour Monitoring Software

In the article Privacy Concerns for ClassDojo and Other Tracking Apps for Schoolchildrenby Natasha Singer, the controversial behaviour monitoring app ClassDojo is analyzed. This app allows teachers to add or subtract points from their students based on good or bad behaviours.  The article looks closely at a third-grade teacher Mr. Fletcher, who is a big supporter of the app. ClassDojo is being used by one teacher in every third school in the United States, however its many benefits are in opposition with some potential risk. The app makes recording behaviour simpler for teachers by automating the process and directly conveying it to parents. The teacher also chooses what behaviours are monitored, and the software will give student’s feedback with goals of developing skills like leadership and teamwork. However, some of the negatives are frightening to many parents. There is an issue of data security, whereas ClassDojo says they are committed to never selling data, many parents fear what could happen if sensitive data about their child is ever leaked. The software requires consent from the principal, but does not require direct consent from the parent, which has many parents upset.  Perhaps the biggest issue with the app is the potential social implications. Many feel this type of “carrot and stick method,” is outdated and treats the students like animals. Teachers also decide whether points are displayed for the entire class to see, something the Mr. Fletcher does.  This could potentially lead to bullying or confidence issues in some students. Lastly, some parents fear this type of software will place labels on their children, such as a “problem child,” that would have an effect on them in future years.

This issue is one that I find very tough to form an opinion on either side of the argument.  My first time hearing about behaviour monitoring software as a teacher, I was skeptical.  I wondered how well a computer can we really help you manage students behaviours.  I see the benefits of ClassDojo for teachers, and in a busy day this software could really assist with behaviour management. However, I believe that displaying points for the entire class to see is an absolute no. Students don’t need to be centred out for bad behaviour, because as teachers we can’t be sure what the underlying issues causing behaviour issues is. I have a sister who teachers at the JK/SK level, and has worked with teachers that have used ClassDojo. She’s seen teachers both display the points and keep them private, and was a huge fan of the app. Much like Mr. Fletcher, she said when displaying the points the app is used almost entirely a reward system opposed to subtracting points. The biggest benefit she saw was communication with parents, as it can be extremely difficult at times to get in contact with a parent via phone or in person. I think these types of apps have a ton of potential benefits, but I believe more research needs to be done. ClassDojo only researches via surveying current users. I feel a lot more comprehensive studies need to be done that analyze the benefits as well as social implications of such softwares. Personally, I can’t see myself using these types of apps. Classroom management can be difficult, but there is many strategies and resources that can be used. I feel that having a mutual respect between teacher and student can be a lot more effective than grading behaviour via a software. However, I do think there Is potential if further developed, for software’s like ClassDojo to be more widely used in schools, specifically at the PJ levels.

For my artifict I made a mind map on Canva, outlining the pros and cons of this issue, feel free to have a look!

-Joseph Power

#UWinDig

Classroom Behaviour Tracking Apps

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