What do teachers use to shape student behavior effectively?

Teachers often rely on secondary reinforcers to shape student behavior effectively. Secondary reinforcers are stimuli that have become reinforcing through their association with primary reinforcers, which satisfy biological needs (like food or water). For example, praise, tokens, or good grades are considered secondary reinforcers because they are not inherently rewarding but gain value through conditioning. By using these reinforcers, teachers can encourage desired behaviors, as students learn to associate the reinforcement with their actions. This creates a more motivating environment that promotes positive behavior and learning.

While primary reinforcers provide immediate satisfaction, they are not always practical or appropriate in educational settings. Negative feedback can discourage behavior but might not promote positive actions effectively. Similarly, extinction techniques involve the removal of reinforcement to decrease undesirable behavior, which can lead to frustration and does not actively promote positive behavior. Thus, secondary reinforcers serve as an effective strategy for teachers to cultivate a supportive and encouraging learning atmosphere.