Jacob Kounin

Jacob Kounin was an educational psychologist known for studying classroom management. He identified strategies teachers use to maintain order and promote learning, emphasizing the importance of proactive techniques. Key concepts include “with-it-ness,” which means staying aware of everything happening in the classroom; “group focus,” maintaining students’ attention on the lesson; and “momentum,” keeping lessons moving smoothly. Kounin believed that effective classroom management involves preventing disruptions before they start, rather than merely reacting to behavior. His work helps teachers create structured, engaging environments where students can learn effectively and behaviors are naturally guided.