Catch them doing something good or great
I have found that public praise at anytime in class is a phenomenal motivator! Catch them doing something good or great and acknowledge it! This goes further than any quiz or test grade they will achieve. Make sure you are not playing favorites though.
I always would praise a student in front of their peers. I would first evaluate the class and see what students needs to be praised. I would look very carefully for a students good point and then praise them.
Hi Venda,
The key as you mentioned it to find the most appropriate way of praising a student. Once found then you can encourage them on a as needed basis.
Gary
Looking for and acknowledging a student for their strenghths seems to go a long way. We can utilize this positive feedback as a preface to advising them in another area where they are challenged. A bread crum of encouragement can go a long way.
Some students don't like public praise...I try to tell them just in passing or in an e-mail...
Praise/positive reenforcement is critical to everyone's self-esteem and self-view. Students especially need praise/positive reenforcement: public praise in the classroom is ideal. Students can become discouraged or caught up in comparing themselves and their work to their classmates. Praise/positive reemforcement assists in not only encouraging the student but in redirecting their focus on their own skills and accomplishments.
What a great reminder to not just focus on what is wrong in a situation. Thanks!
