Increased feelings of self-worth in learners and understanding on the part of parents and teachers would have a great influence on the behavior and academic performance of these children especially those placed in an inclusive classroom setting. If more positive and supportive classroom climates could be developed, these children's motivation would rise and as a result, they would get the opportunity to bloom in all areas of their lives.
Motivation is imperative in a classroom to enhance the students' learning experience. Psychologists define motivation as "a drive from within that guides, activates, and continues behavior over time" (Baron, 1998). A student may be learning through intrinsic or extrinsic motivation, or both. There are different strategies for both types that can be used in a classroom. The keys to motivating students are for the teacher to have a positive attitude, acquire the correct instructional skills, and use the motivational techniques wisely. It is a two way process; both the student and teacher must be active players. Any student can be motivated with the correct amount of attention and guidance. .
One of the ways to engage children in intrinsic motivation is by praising the students for the efforts they make in the classroom and encouraging more positive learning. It is important to praise a child for small improvements along with large ones. Some educators with high expectations forget to commend their students along the way as they gradually achieve the desired goal. Praise or positive reinforcement does not necessarily mean tangible rewards. It is more of a pat on the back, a positive comment, and an encouraging smile. I believe that praise, encouragement and love for your students will give them the self-worth and motivation that they need in order to succeed. This may be difficult for a teacher to accomplish in a classroom with physical, emotional, behavioral and/or learning disabled children, but it is imperative that every teacher discovers the appropriate strategies in order to achieve this by getting to know your students.
