4. Positive reinforcement in the classroom

“Positive reinforcement changes behaviour for the better, while criticism stabilises negative behaviours and blocks change” – Virginia H. Pearce

Acknowledging the students strengths over their weaknesses, praising their growth, noticing their improved behaviour and celebrating their creations regardless of grade allows each student to felt seen and heard. Simple acts have big consequences. Small acts of kindness and caring helps the students value themselves. Art class is not just about who has the best technical skills, but the students think it is. Positive reinforcements help the students reframe their opinion on art. That art celebrates, skills, appreciation, discussion and contribution. This is demonstrated by the teacher pointing out these achievements. The following list is how I achieve this.

How you address the students, calling them emerging artists reframes their opinion of art. Art is a complex subject and there is many questions around who can call themselves artists. Showing them they are artists and that it is viable career helps them value the subject.

Only commenting on the positive and ignoring the negative (to an extent). Showing that attention is only received when they earn it reduces bad behaviour. I find that the ‘messers’ are now calling me over to look at their artwork instead of shouting during class. Every student deserves attention but they have to work for it. Co-delivering lessons. Inviting the students to contribute in class, through questioning and discussions. Giving the students time to talk in a relax manner. Allowing the students to give recommendations for the content they learn. Writing a positive note on their VSware or in their journal. Exhibiting their work on the board, discussing their achievements. And, many more.

These have added to our classroom environment, the students are striving for achievement and are celebrating their creations with my assistance.