Positive reinforcement is the act of rewarding a positive behavior in order to encourage it to happen again in the future
. It is a type of behavior management that focuses on rewarding what students do well, rather than reprimanding them for misbehavior
. Some key aspects of positive reinforcement include:
- Reinforcers : Reinforcers are events, either virtual or real, that change any attribute of behavior, such as rate, intensity, or form
. In the context of positive reinforcement, they serve as rewards that increase the likelihood of a behavior occurring again.
- Sensory Reinforcers : These are various sights, sounds, and smells that serve as rewards. In the classroom, examples include listening to music while working or sitting near the window for a change of scenery
- Gamification Reinforcers : These are learning management systems like Classcraft and fun online quizzes that use game-like elements to motivate students and reinforce positive behaviors
Positive reinforcement is important in various settings, including classrooms, workplaces, and everyday life. It helps increase the likelihood of desired behaviors occurring by providing rewards that people find valuable or pleasurable
. To effectively use positive reinforcement, it is crucial to find what is truly reinforcing to the individuals involved, as what works for one person may not work for another
