The dynamics of success and praise are discussed. Guidelines designed to improve the chances of successful use are provided. A checklist of eight questions teachers can ask themselves about the use of praise is included. (MP)

Focusing on the motivational effect of incentives on people in the workplace, two training consultants debate the effectiveness and usefulness of reward incentives. (LRA)

Argues against the use of rewards for students. Discusses their origin in Skinner's behaviorism and their application in behavior modification in the classroom. Describes the problems with using rewards, as noted by Alfie Kohn and others, including the erosion of intrinsic motivation and the distortion of the focus of learning. Presents…

Skills transfer will occur if planners (1) structure expectations (clarify objectives, focus on behavior, keep expectations achievable and consistent, ensure learner ownership); (2) improve skills (keep objectives at the correct level of cognitive domain, focus on applications, integrate training with the natural environment); and (3) establish…

The strategy of paying students in play dollars for class participation and learning is criticized as inappropriate, and its effectiveness is questioned. It is argued that the classroom is different from the real world, and one of the teacher's tasks is to show the intrinsic value of learning. (MSE)

A suggested college classroom technique for motivating and rewarding student learning is the payment of play dollars to students for correct answers, attendance, and success in pop quizzes. The method is designed to encourage, not discourage, class participation, and provides students with immediate feedback on performance. (MSE)

A skeptical review of recent congressional task force recommendations for public school teachers, which include only a limited endorsement of merit pay and strong encouragement for sabbatical leave for teachers to study and travel abroad. (JBM)

This volume explores the many ways in which college and university education influences the lives of individuals and society. While the book recognizes the economic benefits of a college education, it also surveys and lends support to the evidence of the noneconomic benefits of higher education, both for the individual and for the nation. The 15…