I can still recall the first time a shy fifth grader finally raised his hand to answer in my class for the first time. To acknowledge him, I did not only say “good job” but I went ahead to praise him by saying “Thank you for raising your hand before speaking”. This not only encouraged him to answer but also allowed me to subtly reinforce my class rules keeping the discussion on track. This brief acknowledgement lit a spark on his face and turned his hesitation into confidence.
There is a saying that “every cloud has a silver lining”, which in our context simply means that even when a student is hesitant, shy, is making mistakes or faces difficulties, there is always a chance to learn and improve. Hence, the impact and power of positive reinforcement is the magic of the science of optimism.
Positive reinforcement is a powerful tool to encourage and empower students to improve, work hard and do better every single day. This not only helps with classroom management but also with better student outcome. It creates a safe classroom environment and builds a healthy competition amongst students if implemented correctly by the teachers.
The sad reality of our classrooms however is that, as teachers, we aren’t paying enough attention to inculcate usage of positive reinforcement consistently. Hence, this article is going to be helpful for teachers who are willing to bring some positive changes in their classrooms, pay attention to details such as positive reinforcement and importance of acknowledging a child’s efforts in an encouraging and affirming way.
1. Be clear and specific
When students know exactly what they are being praised for, the chances of them repeating the action is more.
For example, instead of using generic sentences like “good job” or “well done”, be more specific and detailed like, “I like how neatly you have finished your work”.
2. Praise promptly
When you give a quick acknowledgment or a praise, the students stay alert and feels seen in your classroom. This is will encourage them to participate more actively and gain interest in whatever subject you are teaching.
The closer your acknowledgement or praise is to the action, the more the behaviour sticks.
3. Constructive feedback in the notebooks
Students need to know what ‘glows’ and ‘grows’ are there in their work. This means to g let them know what are the things that are working well in their answers and what are the things they can still improve. This doesn’t leave them with few praises but also creates an opportunity for them to improve and get better feedback next time.
So, next time write a detailed feedback in their notebook. They will also look forward to seeing your messages.
4. Reward efforts, not just scores
It’s extremely important for you to praise according to the kind of learner a child is. So, praising only the best work is not important but it is essential to praise smaller achievements like completing homework or participating. You can hand out stickers or badges or simply make other students’ applause for a child’s efforts. This will help build perseverance and confidence, especially for the students who don’t get the perfect scores all the time.
Weaving these simple habits in your classroom teaching consistently, will encourage, motivate and improve student engagement and outcome.
Positive reinforcement will help hesitant learners become enthusiastic participants.
Give these a try and you will soon have “I got it” moments echo throughout your classroom.
By Pradipti
Pradipti is a Lead Trainer with nearly 10 years of experience in the education sector. She strongly believes in empowering teachers and is passionate about building better classrooms across the country through meaningful and impactful teacher training.
An avid reader and a music enthusiast, she brings curiosity and creativity in everything she does.