Challenge behavior in the college classroom

This paper addresses the concept of student challenge behavior and seeks to provide a conceptual framework, report preliminary data, and develop a valid, reliable, and interdisciplinary instrument for measuring challenge behavior in the college classroom. Challenge behavior is seen as a mediational strategy that students use to negotiate the conventions of the classroom culture. Challenge behavior may be motivated by uncertainty and is manifested by behaviors that are contrary to teacher expectations. By creating an instrument to identify student challenge behavior, teachers are able to monitor these challenges and adapt their communication practices accordingly.