Ohio Assessments for Educators (OAE) Special Education Practice Exam

According to the SWPBS framework, what is one purpose of organizing environments?

1. To encourage misbehavior opportunities

2. To promote isolation among students

3. To prevent problematic behaviors from developing

4. To limit support for at-risk students

The correct answer is: To prevent problematic behaviors from developing

Organizing environments is a key component of the School-Wide Positive Behavior Support (SWPBS) framework, and its primary purpose is to prevent problematic behaviors from developing. By structuring physical and social environments positively, schools can create settings that enhance student engagement and foster appropriate behaviors. A well-organized environment can reduce distractions, clarify expectations, and provide students with a clear understanding of how to behave in various situations. This proactive approach minimizes the likelihood of misbehavior by establishing a consistent and supportive atmosphere where students feel safe and understood. The other choices focus on negative outcomes, which run counter to the principles of SWPBS. Encouraging misbehavior or promoting isolation would undermine a supportive school climate. Similarly, limiting support for at-risk students would not align with the intention of SWPBS, which seeks to provide necessary resources and interventions to help all students succeed.