Positive Reinforcement
Wow,I am blown away how this method works in the classroom. My culinary students were given a mystery box assignment to create a three course menu and to cook it in teams of two. Throughout the entire term I followed the guidelines suggested for positive reinforcement and the results were outstanding. They produced the most amazing food combinations today that were presented well. My phrase comment i said to my lab partner is "My job is done here" and he gave me a high five and a hug. Thanks for this insightful teaching tool ^_^
Howard,
I believe in positive reinforcement. We do have to be careful that it is not given too freely.
Judy Mohammed
in our school when the low preformer get alittle praise they light and try harder.
Rick,
Good advice! Ask the easier questions to the hesitant students to help build confidence.
Judy Mohammed
I try to use positive reinforcement just enouph that it doesnt seem over done. I also notice when used properly it can get some of the other students who dont normally get too involved, involved. Redirecting works well also for those who may be a little intimidated to answer, it makes them feel a bit more confident in joining the lesson.
Keri,
I'm glad that you enjoyed the course. Your words are truly pearls of wisdom and, as teachers, it is important for us to keep them in mind.
Judy Mohammed
Peggy,
You are doing a great job if you are their cheerleader. For some of them, you may be the only one. Keep up the excellence!
Judy Mohammed
I really enjoyed this course. It truly reinforced many of the actions and behaviors I strive for in my academics classroom as well as my culinary lab. As educators, we need to remember that we may be the first positive contact a student may have received in an educational setting as well as in his or her personal life experience. As we raise the bar through positive praise, feedback, attitude and example it will go a long way in bringing out the desired educational results of our students and possibly revolutionize their actions and behaviors.
I truly try to always remember that sometimes I am my student's biggest cheerleader. I offer praise on a daily basis. Adults like to be praised as much (if not more than children). I also teach English classes. I always find something positive to say about their papers before I tell them what needs to be changed, elaborated on, etc.
Charles,
Kudos to you! We are role models for our students and we should remember to always be positive with them. Underachievers can be changed; it takes one positive teacher to help those students. It may not be me, but it could be you. We can all affect different students. Keep up your excellence!
Judy Mohammed
Lisa,
This is a good technique. We all appreciate praise and we should give it to our students. Like you, I try to find positive ways to highlight their areas of concern.
Judy Mohammed
I find myself gravitating to the students in may classes that are "high" performers. I like to be positive with students and this gives me the opportunity to be positive.
I have on other occasions found myself talking to students who are not high performers. In these situations I find that the student has a low self image and believe they cannot do any better. After having a conversation with positive reinforcement they begin to do better. Months later at graduation I have had students come to me and say that I was the "turning point" in their educational process. This is why I teach - it is VERY rewarding to know you have made a difference in somebodies life.
I teach English Composition and I always focus on what the student did correctly in their paper before I offer some "helpful hints" on how to improve their writing! Lisa
Glenn,
I am glad that this was helpful to you. Most people enjoy being praised and our students are no different.
Judy Mohammed
