A Cluster-randomized Control Trial of PAX Good Behavior Game in Swedish Elementary Schools

Launched by LINNAEUS UNIVERSITY · Jun 1, 2022

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying the effects of a program called PAX Good Behavior Game in Swedish elementary schools. The main goal is to see how this program can improve the well-being of students and reduce stress among teachers. PAX is designed to be part of regular classroom activities, helping teachers encourage positive behaviors while also providing them with tools to manage stress in their jobs. The study will involve 84 teachers from 28 schools, who will either use the PAX program or participate in a control group with different support. Researchers will measure changes in student health, teacher stress, and academic performance over a year.

To be eligible for this trial, schools must follow the general study plan and have at least one teacher willing to take part. The teacher should be working with 1st or 2nd graders and ready to implement the PAX program. Schools cannot be using other methods that are also aimed at improving the classroom environment at the same time. Participants can expect training on the PAX program and regular assessments to track progress. This study is important as it aims to find effective ways to support both students and teachers in managing mental health and improving the school experience.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• ON SCHOOL LEVEL:
• Inclusion Criteria:
• • The school uses the general study plan (i.e. the school is not only working with students with special needs)
• • There is at least one teacher that is willing to participate, signs the study consent, and will be able to start the implementation in his/her class at the earliest in the second semester in the first grade or at the latest the first semester in the third grade.
• • The principal has signed an agreement to participate in the project, to allow some time for measurements to be administrated, aid in delivering information to the parents, and that the school are responsible for implementing the methods within their regular operation (given that supervision is provided by the research team)
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Another method that specifically aims to improve study and classroom environment is being implemented
• • Another method that is expected to be time and energy consuming for teachers is being implemented during the same period
• ON TEACHER LEVEL:
• Inclusion criteria:
• • The teacher mentors a class of 1st or 2nd graders following the general study plan (ready to implement the program no later than the first semester of the 3rd grade) and deems the class suitable for inclusion in the study
• • The teacher has signed the informed consent
• Exclusion criteria:
• • The teacher has expressed plans to terminate their employment during the upcoming two years
• • A major change in the composition of the class is planned during the upcoming year.