A preview of statistical data from previous studies determined the benefits of positive reinforcement on learning in students from kindergarten through college. Results indicate that differences between reinforced and control groups are greater for girls and for students from special schools and that reinforcement appears to have a strong effect…

The University of Michigan's Shady Trails Camp helps speech impaired children to realize their full potential, using games, student productions, physical activities, and competition, in addition to speech and language therapy. Dances, parties, and trips in a coeducational environment contribute to the development of social skills. (CJ)

The authors assert that, to promote student self-concept, a teacher must develop a positive mental image of each child. They point out positive qualities that teachers may look for and react to in four types of "problem" students: the clown, the bully, the nitpicker, and the doormat. (SJL)

Recommends the use of expressions of encouragement and confirmation (teacher to student), and shows in detail how these may be formulated without giving the impression of merely routine confirmation. (IFS/WGA)

Using task choice to measure information-seeking behavior, two studies examined situational determinants of choice among anagram tests varying both in difficulty and diagnosticity (information about one's ability). Subjects took a preliminary test before choosing. Study 1 manipulated pretest performance level. Study 2 varied payment for pretest…

Eight concrete and positive suggestions are made which a school principal can use to provide motivation, recognition, and enthusiasm to both school personnel (teachers, custodians, secretaries, students) and non-school personnel (grandparents, parents, business leaders, volunteers). (KC)

Counselor-trainees received positive or negative feedback about their performance in a client interview. The trainees' internal-external locus of control orientation had no significant influence on their reaction, but the type of feedback did. "Success" feedback increased trainees' expectancy, willingness to improve, and receptivity to…

A severely retarded, institutionalized, 12-year-old female received reinforcement on an adjusted DRO schedule (differential reinforcement for behavior other than self destruction) until a fairly stable response (no scratching or headbanging) was shown. (Author)

In Writers in Electronic Residence, published authors mentor and critique writing from students across Canada via the Internet. Motivation and reinforcement are the primary feedback for the youngest writers, and gradually, critiques become more specific as children's writing develops. In addition to hearing from two or three mentors, children…

A study assessed the perceptions of 59 school psychologists toward effectiveness and use of instructional adaptations in inclusive classrooms. Overall, the results indicate that most of the instructional adaptations were seen as effective, particularly providing reinforcement and encouragement to students and monitoring students' understanding of…

Examines and analyzes factors responsible for the increasing prevalence and incidence of preschool children with behavior disorders. The research indicates the use of drug therapy, time out, extinction and positive reinforcement, overcorrection procedures, and modeling can be effective reduction strategies for behavior problems. Early intervention…

The term self-worth protection describes a tendency on the part of certain students to underachieve and at other times to perform well on academic tasks of similar difficulty. The development and maintenance of self-worth protection may be attributed to messages implicit in unproductive evaluative feedback used by teachers. (SLD)

This article describes a service-delivery model for individuals with autism that incorporates the philosophy and essential elements of positive behavioral support (PBS). A case study of a 4-year-old boy with autism is provided to illustrate one's family's experience with the family focus process. Key elements of PBS are discussed. (Contains…

In 1987, a Dallas (Texas) elementary school principal developed a Writing to Read to the Principal program to motivate students' mastery of reading and writing in a school where over 80 percent of the students are economically disadvantaged. The program has strengthened the bond among students, parents, teachers, and the principal. Includes six…

A 14-year-old student with moderate retardation rode a stationary bicycle, while rotation of the bicycle wheel operated one of three consequence conditions (television, flashing lights, or vibrator sound). Vibrator sound was the most potent reinforcing consequence. The activity led to the development of exercise behavior with a minimum amount of…