Giving awards?
I think this helps but I think sometimes also get lost in all the myriad of documents and postings available for students.
Institutions where there are 500 students taking 1 course, I think that having a Dean's list by with a few names in there posted in a hallway it does helps but it is minimal because usually students in a Dean's list are not usually students needing much tutoring or help
At the prior school that I worked they gave out pins to encourage the students. Not sure how well it worked. The pins most likely did not cost much and if it help even retaining one student I believe it is worth it. The current school I am in only does the certificate. I will bring up the idea of the pins and see how that goes. I also thought of bring in gold stars. One of the my students brought the idea that she will bring them and give to those students who gave out correct answers when questions was directed to the class. I notice the idea of just mention to them they deserved a gold star really got their attention and praises from there classmates.
Helps what, Gyula? Any idea why they would help?
Sue, have the students found that these awards are helpful when they are interviewing for a job?
We give he students a certificates for attendance, grades and completing certain procedures. We also have a special achievement award that is presented to the student who displays leadership, the ability to tutor other students and helpin the new students that have just enrolled in the program. They are chosen by the instructor and staff. It is an honor that many students strive for.
Penny, did the students identify the "best" prizes? Is it about the prize or the process of being recognized?
We give quartly awards for grades and attendance. Initially, I found this to be very quirky until I spoke to students about it. To my surprise, they love it. We give out cake at the same time as well.
The students get the reward pins after the term ends and they will collect them as they move through their program. They get their rewards attached to their transcripts as the progress through their courses and they wear their pins throughout their careers.
When do the students wear these medal pins, Samuel? Do students use it to identify where others are in the program?
When do the students wear these medal pins, Samuel? Do students use it to identify where others are in the program?
I work at an institution that every time a student completes a course we will give out medal pins that signify accomplishments along with a Dean's list for attendance and stellar grades. I find that students enjoy having something to show for each milestone during their education.
Most of our institutions are geared toward small er classes than 500 students. Our students often need additional motivation that comes in many forms. Making the award lists has proven to be important to the students as demonstrated through their desire to know when the awards will be distributed. I have had students upset when they did not make it and more often than not the student will be successful in making the list the following term.
I agreee awards are important. We give them out to students at pinning, the students have know idea until they hear their name. We ackowledge how far they have come etc.
The certificates and pins we award at the end of each module truly renew the students sense of accomplishment as well as recognize them as "special individuals" which aids in retention.
We are teaching adults,so why give them chidlike tokens. I think that no reward is better than a heartfelt smile and pat on the back, along with affirmation of the achievement.
I really agree with Loren Kroh and Anna-Marie. Students love praise
We also give certificates at the end of each of our terms. There are several criteria we reward for.
Academics
Professionalism
Student helping student
Those are just to name a few. The students really enjoy them and it gives them a sense of accomplishment.
We also give certificates and pins at the end of every Term and students look forward to this event of recognition.
We also give pins for attendance and high grade point average. Students like their pins!
