Creating A Reward System For Online School Success

Creating a reward system for online school success can help motivate students, encourage positive behaviors, and build a sense of accomplishment. A well-designed reward system provides structure and recognition while fostering a growth mindset. Here’s a guide on how to create a reward system tailored to online learning:

1. Define Clear Goals and Expectations

• Set Specific Objectives: Identify the key behaviors or milestones you want to reward, such as completing assignments on time, participating in class discussions, improving grades, or showing consistent effort.

• Make Goals Measurable: Ensure that goals are clear and measurable. For example, “Complete at least three assignments each week” or “Attend all live sessions for a month” makes it easier to track progress.

• Include Academic and Non-Academic Goals: Recognize both academic achievements (e.g., improving grades, mastering a concept) and non-academic behaviors (e.g., being punctual for online classes, contributing to discussions).

2. Types of Rewards

• Intrinsic Rewards: These are personal rewards that help students feel proud and motivated. Examples include:

  • Self-Reflection: Encourage students to reflect on their progress and personal growth.

  • Celebrating Success: Acknowledge achievements in class meetings or emails.

• Extrinsic Rewards: Tangible rewards that can motivate students, such as:

  • Digital Badges: Award digital badges for completing certain milestones, like “Master of Time Management” for turning in assignments on time.

  • Certificates: Create custom certificates for students who meet specific academic or behavioral goals.

  • Privileges: Offer privileges like extra breaks, the ability to choose a class activity, or additional time for projects.

  • Gift Cards: Small gift cards to online retailers (like Amazon or iTunes) can be a great incentive for older students.

  • Customizable Rewards: Let students choose from a range of rewards, such as extra credit, homework passes, or special recognition.

3. Tiered Reward System

• Small, Medium, and Large Rewards: Create a tiered system where students can earn both small and larger rewards as they reach different milestones. This keeps motivation high, as there’s a clear path to success.

  • Small Rewards: Offer rewards for daily or weekly tasks like completing assignments or participating in discussions. Examples: digital stickers, shout-outs in class, or virtual badges.

  • Medium Rewards: Reward students for consistent performance over the course of a month or term, such as improved grades or consistent class participation. Examples: extended break time, extra credit, or a choice of class activity.

  • Large Rewards: Provide significant rewards for long-term achievements or goals, such as maintaining high grades or mastering difficult concepts. Examples: a certificate of achievement, a personalized video message, or a one-on-one session with the teacher.

4. Gamification Elements

• Points System: Award points for specific achievements, like completing assignments, attending classes, or contributing to group work. Students can accumulate points over time and exchange them for rewards.

• Leaderboards: Create a friendly competition by displaying a leaderboard that shows how many points students have earned. Keep it positive and focused on self-improvement rather than comparing students against each other.

• Leveling Up: Create a “leveling up” system where students advance to higher levels after completing certain tasks or milestones. Each new level comes with a new set of rewards or privileges.

5. Behavioral Rewards

• Reward Positive Behaviors: Focus on rewarding positive online behaviors, such as:

  • Engagement: Actively participating in class, asking thoughtful questions, or responding to classmates’ ideas.

  • Timeliness: Turning in assignments on time, attending live sessions regularly.

  • Collaboration: Working well with peers on group projects or providing feedback to others.

• Encourage Self-Discipline: Reward students for staying on track with their independent learning, such as sticking to study schedules, avoiding distractions, or taking initiative in their learning.

6. Incorporate Student Input

• Let Students Choose Rewards: Allow students to choose their rewards, either from a pre-set list or by earning a certain amount of points. Giving students the autonomy to select their own rewards can increase motivation.

• Create a Reward Survey: Periodically ask students for feedback on what types of rewards motivate them the most. This ensures the reward system stays relevant and engaging.

• Personalized Rewards: Tailor rewards to each student’s interests. For example, if a student is passionate about art, offer a reward related to that, such as an online drawing class or art supplies.

7. Incorporate Social and Emotional Recognition

• Public Praise: Acknowledge achievements in front of the class (virtually), whether it’s through shout-outs, mentions during online meetings, or a class newsletter.

• Private Recognition: Recognize students privately through personalized emails or messages congratulating them on their achievements.

• Celebration of Milestones: Celebrate larger milestones like completing a challenging project or receiving great grades, perhaps with a virtual class party or special event.

8. Monitor Progress and Adjust

• Track Achievements: Use spreadsheets, online tools, or learning management systems (like Google Classroom) to track student progress and award rewards as they meet goals.

• Adjust Based on Feedback: If students feel the rewards are too difficult to achieve, or not motivating enough, adjust the system to better suit their needs. Regularly ask for student feedback and make necessary tweaks.

• Consistency: Make sure rewards are distributed consistently and fairly, based on the set expectations. This helps students trust the system and stay motivated.

9. Include Non-Material Rewards

• Recognition of Effort: Rewarding effort is just as important as rewarding results. Publicly recognize students who show persistence, improvement, or a positive attitude, even if they haven’t reached all of their goals yet.

• Growth Mindset Encouragement: Reward students for showing growth in their learning, regardless of whether they’ve mastered the material. This can help foster a growth mindset, where effort and progress are valued.

10. Balance Rewards with Accountability

• Balance Rewards with Consequences: While rewards are motivating, it’s also important to maintain a system of accountability for students who are not meeting the set goals or expectations. Implement gentle consequences (like reduced privileges) for not following through on assignments or participation.

• Focus on the Process: Ensure that students understand that the reward system is meant to reinforce positive learning behaviors, not just to motivate them to get grades. A focus on the learning process helps maintain long-term motivation and success.