Praise
I agree and have seen that praise can be much over-used. It definitely devalues future attempts at praise and is something that takes practice and skill. For instance, overuse of praise can lead some students to feel unfavored by an instructor- if the instructor tends to praise certain students (i.e., the more vocal ones) more often than others. Interesting concepts that should be reviewed very often.
Katherine,
We also want to encourage students to participate and we should give praise when due.
Judy Mohammed
I feel praise is overused in the class. Praise should be used only when they truly deserve the praise
Benjamin,
This is good, but just think of the shy student who refrains from answering. When that student does respond, he/she deserves praise, no matter how well understood the material should be. Do you agree?
Judy Mohammed
For me, it really depends on what they are studying. I teach math and science courses at my college, and find that some subjects always merit praise. For example, if a student solves a challenging factoring problem, I always praise them, since I know how much effort goes into such a problem. However, if the assignment is to find the number of protons for a simple element like carbon, I will then require a more challenging problem before giving praise. I prefer to use praise to help a student overcome a challenge than reinforce something already well understood.
Marlene,
I agree and I often use praise to build a student’s confidence. Students are more likely to listen when we recognize their contributions, no matter how small.
Judy Mohammed
Darlisa,
That is true but there is nothing wrong in giving praise once it is deserved.
Judy Mohammed
Mike,
You are right. Empty praise has less meaning; however, I interpreted this to mean that we give praise when it is deserved.
Judy Mohammed
Hi Robert,
I have found that giving praise during a clinical procedure properly completed by a student has increased the student's self confidence and encourages others to strive for the same results.
I feel that praise should not be over used and only used when actually deserved. Empty praise makes any praise you give meaningless.
I totally agree. Anything that comes too easy, is never truly appreciated.
Joan,
You are correct. We all like praise and it should come sincerely. Students pay more attention and are more interactive when praised appropriately.
Judy Mohammed
Robert,
Praise given too freely and too often can be meaningless; however, it is important to give priase when deserved, especially since some students do not have much social support.
Judy Mohammed
I believe that praise helps a student feel important. I think they pay attention, even when they are not, for example "What did she say" when they hear praise. But I agree don't over do it.
