Instead of scolding students for bad behavior there are a variety of different techniques that can transform the learning environment. One of the most effective and essential strategies is positive reinforcement, which is the promotion of a good outcome in relation to an act. An example of this would be when a gold star is given to a student who has been participating in class discussions. In order to integrate positive reinforcement into the classroom, there are different individual forms of reinforcement that can be utilized.
It can be extremely rewarding to receive praise after completing a task well. This particular form of reinforcement is frequently referred to as social reinforcement. Social reinforcement involves expressing approval after the correct behavior is performed. For example, if the student completes their task well the teacher may respond with a positive verbal comment or write something positive about the students’ work.
Another valuable form of reinforcement not only promotes good behavior, but also supports student decision-making. Activity reinforcement permits students who have performed the desired behavior to choose a fun activity such as playing a game or spending time with a classmate. By utilizing activity reinforcement to encourage students’ good behavior, the students are rewarded by making their own decision about what activity they would like to do in addition to the positive effects their actions created.
Lastly, one of the most defined forms of reinforcement is token reinforcement. For this type of reinforcement, teachers can create what is referred to as a ‘Classroom Economy’. Within a classroom economy, students receive tokens or points based on their desirable behavior. Students then collect their tokens and exchange them for various prizes such as a piece of candy or a group pizza party. Using token reinforcement can encourage a sense of community among students and is an effective way to continue to promote good behavior in the classroom.
Hopefully, these forms of positive reinforcement will become the norm in the classroom as teachers move away from harsh scoldings and punishments. Using positive reinforcement as a tool to promote good student behavior and encourage strong student-teacher relationships is far more effective. Teaching students that performing the desired behavior will be rewarded will create a more positive environment in the classroom and benefit student learning as a whole.
Written By: Emma Schlosser
