Function-Based Thinking in Schools - Dr Russ Fox

In the first episode of the Behavioural Deep Dive, I sit down with Dr Russ Fox to explore function-based thinking and how it can be applied in classroom settings.Russ describes behaviour as something that is shaped by the environment, emphasising that students are always responding to what is happening around them. The conversation explores how being curious about what occurs before and after behaviour can help educators better understand why students respond the way they do, and what that behaviour may be doing for them in that context. A key idea discussed is that behaviour is adaptive, even when it is costly. Rather than viewing behaviour as something that sits within the student, Russ outlines a way of thinking that focuses on the interaction between the student and their environment, and how this can inform more effective support. The episode also explores how this thinking applies to classroom practice, including how teachers can better support and respond to student behaviour across academic tasks, social situations, and classroom expectations, and make small adjustments to support success.This is a practical conversation for educators looking to deepen their understanding of student behaviour and apply strategies that are grounded in how behaviour works within real classroom environments.For full show notes, click here.