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Rewards & Praise
"We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence then, is not an act, but a habit." -Aristotle
Reward and praise systems can be an effective way of acknowledging students work and overall accomplishments when they are appropriately applied. I believe it is important to recognize every one of my students achievements no matter how little or big they may be. Addressing a students positive actions is likely to motivate them to continue working to their full potential. As mentioned, it is pivotal to use rewards and praise in a way that fosters constructive and growth mindset; it is essential that we do not praise intelligence itself. I am a strong believer in intrinsic motivation rather than extrinsic motivation. I believe that students should strive to achieve to their full potential for their own inner self fulfillment rather than for a physical reward. The idea of giving students physical rewards for their accomplishments will only make them more likely to complete tasks knowing there is an end recompense.
I do believe it is beneficial to praise students in a way that acknowledges the student, demonstrate specific ideas, describes the impact of the action as well as reinforce the students identity. Students feel a great sense of pride when their efforts are noticed and praised.
Whole Class Activity As A Reward
Whole class activities are a positive way of rewarding the class all together. When students work positively and effectively with one another, they are content when the class is rewarded as a whole. Having a class activity where students get to either play, have a brain break with 'just dance', or watch a short video clip is a great way of showing students that they have worked hard and deserve some time to themselves.
Whole class 'just dance' activity
Displaying Their Work
When students accomplish their work and are proud of their results, displaying their work is a nice way to praise their efforts. Students are often very excited to have their work shown and are proud to show that they have worked hard. It is rewarding for students to see their teachers and peers reaction when viewing the work they have accomplished. Students are likely to continue working towards their goals as they feel they have attained their tasks thus far.
Shining Light On The Student
Shining light on students positive actions and behaviours is a way of recognizing their success as a whole. When students work hard or show significant determination, they take great comfort and pride when they see that they are being identified.It is also likely to influence the student to continue what they are doing as it serves as a form of positive reinforcement and motivation. This is constructive as the student is proud of themselves and displays intrinsic motivation.
Certificates Of Achievements
While certificates of achievements are physical, it is not a manipulative object that students work towards as an extrinsic motivation. These certificates simply highlight a students hard work and dedication. When a student receives a certificate, they are pleased with the work they have done and can acknowledge why they deserve it. It is an exciting way for a teacher to praise and encourage their students. With these certificates, students are thrilled to continue working hard and demonstrate appropriate expected behaviours.
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