positive reinforcement

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Home : 2004 : October : 10

positive reinforcement
By nerak

Positive reinforcers such as a classroom economy where they earn points to buy things or privlges from a class "store" often help motivate. There are several reinforcers that can help.

Are you allowed to "fail" students?
I
teach several pull out classes that are all individualized. It is pretty hard for a kid to fail my classes, but it can happen. If after using several interventions including positive reinforcement, assignment notebooks to keep track of assignments, individual attention and communication with parents, the student still refuses to turn in work, they fail. If they realize they may have

to take my 9th grade English class "again" it can be a great motivator. Of course all schools are different, so this may not be an option for you. In our school students are not automatically passed just because they are in special education. They must show effort. In 7 years, I have only failed one student for an entire semester. Usually failing one quarter is enough. Kids see that F and realize they need to work bring the grade up. So, they have the opportunity in the next quarter to attain a passing grade for the semester.

I've also found that parent /student conferences can help. Bring in the principal, the student,and the parent and discuss the situation and what can be done about it. This should not be punitive, it should be a positive meeting looking for solutions. Of course, many kids HATE parent/ teacher meetings about them, so that can be a motivator too. :-)