Simple rewards can sometimes be marvelous motivators.
Students even adult students are often excited when you provide small rewards for expected content. For example, although, the students are required to complete all the projects in the lab to pass the course the days that you offer a piece of candy or bag of chips for every project finished are often the most focused and productive. Although not long term motivational tools the students seem to enjoy the treat and don't even realize that they worked 20% harder that day. Even though the money for the treats comes out of my pocket I think it's well worth it. Definetley breaks up the "hum and drum" for many of the students.
Hi Deborah,
Though I haven't had such a situation occur an instructor can offer other items as "rewards". They may include things like school supplies or recognition by the instructor.
Gary
There are some that argue against providing candy or food items as a "treat" due to the current health trends in the United States. What other types of rewards have been found successful?
Hi Robin,
Adults can be such kids. Treats really do help get the excitement going with students. Competition really gets the students involved as well. Combine the two and you have a winner.
Gary
I sometimes play games and bring in candy/fruit snacks and it seems to really motivate the class. It seems they are more willing to respond quickly to a question when there is a sweet treat involved.
Hi Jimmy,
Well said! You have given a comprehensive plan for getting students involved in the learning process while supporting them with encouragement and personal attention.
Gary
Giving small treats is great for class morale. And when any project is turned into a competition you get better than average results. Sometimes all it takes is to pull a below average student to a one on one conversation and let them know you personally care for their success in your class. Some of the students we deal with have no self esteem and no one other that the instructor that cares how they do. Knowing that at least their instructor cares for them can sometimes turn the student around. Just by simply assuring the student they do have value and can be successful sometimes makes a huge difference and can change their lives forever.
Hi John,
Little things like treats do make a big difference in the tone of the class. I am a treat person myself. As you say the cost is not large considering the return you get. It has been estimated that a teacher spends on the average over $400 dollars a year out of his or her own pocket to encourage, reward and motivate students.
Gary
