Positive Reinforcement
Every day brings an opportunity to learn something new. Positive reinforcement has been something that I have struggled with but over the last couple of months I have been able to recognize the importance of this! Instead of always focusing on the negative aspects of student work and behaviour it is important to also recognize the good and acknowledge it whenever you can. This goes beyond the classroom and can be extended into any practice. Even when coaching a team it’s important to acknowledge growth and continue to positively reinforce the individual. As I have been able to integrate more forms of positive reinforcement I have learnt how effective it truly is. A simple comment has been able to strengthen many relationships mainly because it gives the student the opportunity to reflect and talk about the work they produced. A simple meaningful comment also makes the person feel appreciated and noticed which over time can strengthen any relationship. I have also learnt that positive reinforcement means going above comments like “good job” it means to actually observe the work and make a meaningful comment on what you see. Over time, I have learnt to make meaningful comments that accurately reflect the work that I’m observing. It was difficult to steer away from the “good job” or the “great work” but because I have been able to see the immediate effects of positive reinforcement I have since made it my mission to try to incorporate as much as I can!
I am glad you recognize the difference between simple positive reinforcement and ‘meaningful’ feedback! As you gain more experience observing student work at various developmental and grade levels, you’re right, you will be able to more quickly come up with those little nuggets that will support and extend student learning!