How to Use Positive Reinforcement in the Classroom

Positive reinforcement in the classroom often gets good results.

Behavior management in the classroom can be difficult to master. Although techniques are often taught in teacher training classes, good behavior management usually comes with time, practice and trial-and-error. One technique that has stood the test of time and always works, however, is using positive reinforcement. The correct use of positive reinforcement in the classroom will work wonders on managing the behavior of your students.

Things You'll Need

• Large glass jar
• Marbles
• Paper apples and tape

Instructions

1. Start the day off right. Greet your students with words of praise, such as, "Thanks for hanging up your backpack quietly.", rather than "Keep your voice down!" Try to find at least one student who has entered the classroom or hung up his backpack quietly, and praise him. Chances are, others will hear and follow suit.

2. Use praise sparingly and specifically. Too much praise will make it less meaningful. Specific praise will reinforce good behavior. "Great job" is nice to hear, but it's even better to hear, "You are doing a great job at keeping all four chair legs on the floor." This reminds the student of the behavior you want her to continue achieving.

3. Use verbal positive reinforcement loudly and openly. When praising a student or group of students, praise them in a nice, loud voice. You want the other students to hear and then mimic the behavior of the good students.

4. Use visual aids. If you see the class working together in a positive way, praise them, then drop a marble into a jar or stick a paper apple on the board. This is a visual reminder to the students that you are proud of their behavior. When the jar is filled with marbles or the apples extend all the way across the board, reward the class with extra recess or a fun art activity.

5. Be immediate with your positive reinforcement. Catch the good behavior immediately when it happens. Delayed positive reinforcement does not reinforce anything. Sometimes it even confuses those students who have a short memory.

6. Catch the good, not the bad. Yes, you have to deal with behavior issues when they arise, but try to look for good behavior as well. For every negative you have to address, find five positives to praise.

Tips & Warnings

• Try not to reward students with sweets or too much "stuff". Sometimes an enthusiastic, genuine praise is all they need or want.

• Make sure you aren't constantly praising the same students. Look for ways to encourage all of your students. Use Popsicle sticks in a can with the kids names on them and pull them out to call on students to ensure the randomness of the answering students.

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish
• The Teacher's Guide: Classroom Management Techniques