I found Marzano's comments dealing with recognition (pgs. 53-59) very interesting. He states three things from research. 1 Rewards do not necessarily have a negative effect on intrinsic motivation. 2 Reward is most effective when it is contingent on the attainment of some standard of performance. 3 Abstract symbolic recognition is More effective than tangible rewards.
I worked for 18 years in a program call CBTU (Child Behavioral Treatment Unit) with Valley Mental Health in which praise (recognition) was a very important part of the program. They stressed a 1-10 correction to praise, to reinforce positive behavior. I found that recognition was constantly given, but the students, after a while, kind of tuned out the praise. This high level of praise didn't always work with all students. Another thing I realized is that the praise was not always genuine. What I learned from this experience and from Marzano's book is that the praise HAS to be genuine and it has to be specific. If used correctly, recognition can increase positive outcomes and can help with intrinsic motivation.
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I agree that praise has to be genuine. It is all to easy to spout off a series of "good job's" to kids, but before long, that just turns into fluff. The great (but sometimes difficult) thing is that it really doesn't take much more time to say a child's name, look them in the eye, and give sincere and specific recognition for something. It seems like it should be so easy, unless, of course, they are in the process of driving you up a wall, in which case it might be more effective to write a short note and slip it to them! (Sincerity is sometimes easier to achieve in writing!)
ReplyDeletePerry,
ReplyDeleteThanks for your comments. That's a great idea to write a note to the student.
I think that by writing your comments to the student, you don't run the risk of embarrassing those students that are really shy or that don't like the attention that they would get from peers who might overhear your comments. All students need to be praised and receive reinforcements, but not all will accept it if it puts them on the spot or gives them unwanted attention from others.
ReplyDeleteI have found that using post-it notes is a great way to communicate. First, post-it notes limit the space I use, making me concise, direct, and short. I always put their name on it and always sign my name, making sure that it is highly personal. I can stick it on their desk easily even if they are not there and it stays. Second, I have been amazed at how many save these notes by putting them into their student file folders for conferences. Third, they can show who they want and avoid embarrassment perhaps.
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