The Importance of Positive Reinforcement for Young Learners

By: Kadek Eva Yanthi Kusuma

It is widely acknowledged that being a teacher is one of the most challenging jobs in the world. One part of teaching that poses a challenge is the management of student behaviour. Behaviour management is important because we want to raise students to act and behave appropriately. How do you handle the behaviour of your students in class? If you want to see a shift in the students’ manner, you might want to rethink the approach that you take. Positive reinforcement is a possible approach to improve student behaviour.

Positive reinforcement refers to the act of giving or supplying a positive stimulus following an action which nourishes the desired behaviour, for example, offering praise, clapping and cheering, giving a high five, and giving a thumbs-up when they treat their friends well. Positive reinforcement is regarded as one of the most effective methods for creating measurable and sustainable behavioral change. Using positive reinforcement in the classroom allows teachers to observe students engaging in positive behaviour. It is essential that students feel supported and successful at school. Therefore, positive reinforcement is one technique used to show that acceptable student behaviour is recognised and rewarded.

Why does positive reinforcement bring positive impacts to young learners?

Positive Reinforcement Develops A Child’s Character.

Young learners who are taught to behave appropriately through positive reinforcement are likely to have better character development than children who are driven by fear of punishment. Children learn that excellent behaviour leads to positive consequences such as rewards or simply simple acknowledgement in a positive reinforcement system. This instils in them the importance of personal responsibility and self-discipline.

Positive Reinforcement Boost Self-confidence

It is common for young learners to be unsure of how to behave, particularly if they have gotten into trouble in the past due to their actions. Children enjoy elation anytime they are praised for performing a challenging job. They accomplished something of which you may be proud, and children always want praise. When they are praised for doing something well or responsibly, they develop a sense of self-assurance and optimism. They will be likely to have less self-doubt and more confidence in their abilities.

Positive Reinforcement Motivates Young Learners to Do Better in the Future

When children are feeling down, sometimes all that is required to help them feel motivated is a few encouraging words. Children are always developing and learning new things, so providing them with opportunities for positive reinforcement will encourage them to perform better and keep working toward achieving their objectives. As teachers, our responsibility is to guide our students and lead them along a path that is full of support and motivation. Instead of focusing on the negative aspects of situations, children will develop a more optimistic outlook on life if they are taught in this manner.