Skinned Knees and ABCs The Complex World of Schools

Skinned Knees and ABCs critically analyzes schools as sites for applied behaviour systems. It delves deep into the origin of various behavioural theories that affect these institutions and utilizes scientific theories in mathematics, behavioural economics and psychology (social, cognitive and educational) to examine the complexities, failures and successes of school systems. The book discusses the complex and chaotic nature of schools and the fundamental psychological constructs which form the basis for curriculum and behavioural designs. It also highlights the problems and peculiarities faced by students, parents and educators and suggests alternatives and solutions through real-life case studies. Drawing on in-depth research and theoretical know-how, the book will be of interest to students, teachers and researchers of school education, organizational behaviour, behavioural sciences and applied psychology. It will also be of interest to parents of school-going children, school management heads, policy makers and educators.

Part 1: Nature and Characteristics1. Schools as Complex Systems 2. Behaviourism, Cognitivism and Constructivism in School Systems Part 2: Behavioural Dimensions 3. The Role of Bounded Rationality and Cognitive Biases in Schools 4. Nudging Schools 5. Game Theory and Strategic Behaviour in Schools Part 3: Operational Dimensions 6. The Psychology of Control and Conformity 7. The Safe School Part 4: Outcomes 8. The Fallacy of the Superlatives 9. A Source of Perpetual Influence Part 5: Summation 10. In Summation 11. Epilogue – The School and I

Debarshi Roy is an independent researcher. He is also a management consultant and a senior professional in school management. His current research interests include complex adaptive behavioural systems, behavioural game theory and quantitative modelling of human behaviour, behavioural economics, psychological safety and empathy in school behavioural systems and their relation to school outcomes and student motivation. He has published over a dozen research papers and has presented his research at several national and international seminars and conferences.