Student Motivation and Acknowledgement Systems - Jennifer Payne

In this episode of Behavioural Deep Dive, I sit down with Jennifer Payne, teacher, psychologist, and Director of Rypple, to unpack student motivation, acknowledgement systems, and some of the common misconceptions around rewards in schools.We explore the difference between intrinsic and extrinsic motivation, the research often linked to the “rewards undermine motivation” debate, and how acknowledgement systems can be used to support behavioural skill development over time.Jennifer reframes acknowledgement systems as more than simply reward systems, describing them instead as a way to assess behavioural skills and prompt adults to use effective practices such as specific positive feedback. We also discuss how acknowledgement systems can be used as a data based decision making tool to better understand student behaviour, guide teaching, and strengthen implementation of positive classroom practices within schools.We also unpack self determination theory, including the role of relatedness, autonomy, and competence in helping students move from external regulation towards greater independence and self regulation.A practical and thoughtful conversation for educators, school leaders, and anyone interested in behaviour support, motivation, and positive school culture.For full show notes, click here.