Comparison of disruptive behaviours in South Australian LOTE and mainstream primary school classrooms

Abstract

The frequencies of disruptive behaviours in students were compared between their respective LOTE (German) and mainstream primary school classrooms. Forty-nine students aged between nine and twelve, from years four to seven, were observed during the study. The overall frequency of disruptive behaviours in German classes was found to be significantly higher than in mainstream classes. Three of the four observed behaviours were also found to be more frequent in German classes. Some suggestions for improving teaching practice and future research have been made.