Positive Reinforcement
Giving students authentic and positive feedback is a great motivational tool. Making “I noticed” and “I appreciate” state- ments communicates to students that you are focused on their success. When students are recognized for their positive behavior in my classroom, they will receive specific feedback as to what it is they did well and often a hug or high-five, too. As another way of providing positive reinforcement, each day I randomly choose a “mystery person.” If this person does a great job being safe, kind, and responsible throughout music class, he/she receives one of our “three-star sheets” (see Figure 4). On the back, I sometimes write a description of how the student was safe, kind, and/or responsible.
I was a safe, kind, and responsible “bucket-filler” in music class today!
Figure 4: “Three-Star Sheet” for Positive Reinforcement Make a Difference!
Creating a positive and engaging classroom environment will maximize our time with students and help foster a love of learning. Students will feel a sense of community and will be more motivated to learn. In addition to the strategies dis- cussed in this article, Figure 5 shares a number of other ways we can enhance our classroom environment in order to pro- mote smiling musicians. By doing so, we will be better able to take time to enjoy what we do as well as the opportunity we have to make a difference in our students’ lives. Here’s to happy music making!
Ask for student input
Demonstrate musicality
Wait for readiness
Be enthusiastic Be expressive
Continue to engage students in a positive learning environment! Here’s how… Move
Give choices
Show students you care by making meaningful connections
Incorporate relatable material
Pace yourself Eye contact is key
Phrase things in a positive way
Thoughtful planning Use variety Remember proximity Figure 5: Strategies for Encouraging a Positive Learning Environment
Please Note: This article is based on a presentation given by Cari Cravotta and Leslie Nielsen at the 2014 Michigan Music Conference.
Leslie Nielsen teaches at Fuerstenau Early Childhood Center in the DeWitt Public School system. She is in her sixth year of teaching and also enjoys teaching private piano lessons. She received her Bachelors degree in Music Education from Michigan State University and is currently working on her Masters degree in Music Education. She is certified in Gordon’s MLT Elementary Level 1, 2, and Early Childhood.
Use students’ names Remember proximity
Incorporate attainable goals
Make it a game Sing more/talk less
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