PROJECT Thrive: REINFORCE
Reshaping a Responsive Behavior Management System
When we establish expectations, we need to reinforce the importance of compliance. The purpose of reinforcement is to increase the likelihood of recurrence of the desired behaviors. In this thread, we discuss approaches to working with students where you are reinforcing the desired behaviors that make a positive learning environment that leads to better student outcomes.
This strand explores practical techniques for applying reinforcement effectively in the classroom. Topics include identifying appropriate reinforcers, delivering timely and specific feedback, and tailoring reinforcement strategies to individual student needs. Teachers will also learn how to implement systems such as token economies, class wide incentives, and individualized plans to encourage positive behavior. By strategically reinforcing desired behaviors, educators will create a classroom culture where students feel motivated to contribute to a supportive and productive learning environment.
This strand explores practical techniques for applying reinforcement effectively in the classroom. Topics include identifying appropriate reinforcers, delivering timely and specific feedback, and tailoring reinforcement strategies to individual student needs. Teachers will also learn how to implement systems such as token economies, class wide incentives, and individualized plans to encourage positive behavior. By strategically reinforcing desired behaviors, educators will create a classroom culture where students feel motivated to contribute to a supportive and productive learning environment.
PROJECT THRIVE
What's in the Reinforce strand?
Role of Reinforcement
Beyond Rewards
Examine the role of reinforcement as it impacts behavior choices. Distinguish between positive and negative reinforcement. Research emphasizes the long-term effectiveness of positive reinforcement – especially when it is personalized, involves natural consequences, and includes input from individuals to create a motivating and supportive environment.
Create a Positive Learning Environment
Rapport, Rewards, and Results
Create a positive learning environment by combining clear expectations, proactive behavior strategies, efficient redirection, de-escalation techniques, and meaningful reinforcements tailored to individual student needs.
Use of Teacher-Attention to Re-direct Behavior
Presence with Purpose
Examine teacher attention as a powerful and immediate form of social reinforcement that, when paired with clear, specific praise and other individualized rewards, can greatly influence student behavior and engagement. Effective reinforcement is tailored to each student’s unique needs and creates a responsive and supportive learning environment that promotes both academic and behavioral success.
4 to 1 Ratio of Positive Reinforcement to Corrective Feedback
Accentuate the Positive
Use reinforcement with intentionality, where the words and actions teachers use can shape student behavior, build rapport, and create a respectful, engaging learning environment. Central to this approach is the 4 to 1 ratio of positive reinforcement to corrective feedback, which, when applied consistently, fosters intrinsic motivation, reduces behavioral issues, and cultivates a positive classroom culture that supports both student success and teacher well-being.