Initiative Description: All intervention sessions occurred in the mornings before math class. A 4-minute videotape segment showing a different peer model was shown and discussed during each intervention session. On-task behavior was recorded during this time. Following the videotape segment, specific skills were discussed with the class, including keeping eyes on work, ignoring distractions, keeping the desk clear of distracting items, etc. Each student was then asked to make a commitment, either verbally or by raising a hand, to imitate the peer model and demonstrate aspects of attending behavior that was discussed during the intervention sessions that day. Finally, students were given a small tangible reward for making the commitment to try to imitate the peer model when doing their own schoolwork.

Study Results: Improved on-task behavior. Large effect size values were shown in all 3 classes during the intervention phase, with continued large ES values for 2 of the 3 classes, and a moderate ES value for the third class at follow-up.

Reference: Richards, L. C., Heathfield, L. T., & Jenson, W. R. (2010). A classwide peer-modeling intervention package to increase on-task behavior. Psychology in the Schools,47(6), 551-566. doi:10.1002/pits.20490

Level of Evidence: Very Good