James Nuttall Blog

Learning is best when it is positive. Even brain research indicates that when the brain is in a positive mood learning is more effective. Thus every student should receive positive feedback. Every paper, quiz, assignment or test should contain positive feedback. Even papers with an 'F' should have remarks such as "good try keep working hard", "I'm pleased you turned in a paper.", "You are brave for turning in a paper today."

It takes bravery to turn in a paper you know is not what it should be. Or worse if everyone is turning in a paper when you don't have one, you are filled with anxiety and dread. When you have tried hard, you turn in papers and assignments with a positive feeling and pride. Believe me as a dyslexic student, I know this from personal experience.

Positive comments encourage students to work and try harder. This is called positive reinforcement. The opposite negative reinforcement makes a student dislike learning and causes him to avoid doing assignments. The teachers we remember with good feelings were those who were positive and encouraged us to try hard and to do our best. They are teachers who said positive things and smiled a lot at us. They radiated warmth and kindness.

Brain research shows that positive feedback releases dopamine in the brain. Dopamine is a neural transmitter which helps nerves to communicate with each other. When dopamine is released by the nerves the student feels better and learning occurs much better as well. So positive feedback is a basic part of our ability to learn and remember new things. Thanks for reading my blog. :-)

# posted by James Nuttall @ 8:03 AM