This research explored the role of teacher praise in managing classrooms within a South African special school. Adopting a qualitative case study approach, data were collected through semi-structured interviews with teachers and focus group discussions with learners, followed by thematic analysis.The findings indicate that praise, when deliberately employed to reinforce learners’ sense of competence, nurture teacher–learner relationships, and encourage autonomy, can function as a powerful relational strategy in special education contexts. Learners generally viewed praise as motivating and validating, contributing positively to their self-esteem and connection with teachers. Yet, responses were not uniform. For some, particularly those from less supportive home environments, praise was met with discomfort or indifference. Likewise, while certain teachers applied praise with clear intent, others demonstrated uncertainty or limited skill in adapting it to individual learner needs. Three key implications emerged. First, inconsistencies in the use of praise point to the importance of professional learning that enhances teachers’ “praise literacy.” Second, praise should be reconceptualised as more than a means of behaviour control, recognising its developmental and relational significance. Third, teacher preparation programmes should foreground autonomy-supportive practices that promote learners’ emotional well-being. Taken together, the study advances a shift from punitive disciplinary models toward relational approaches, positioning praise as a meaningful tool for fostering motivation, agency, and attachment among learners in special schools.

Authors:
Motsekiso Calvin Letuma, University of Johannesburg, South Africa

About the Presenter(s)
Dr Motsekiso Calvin Letuma is a Senior Lecturer researching leadership practices for positive learning environments, classroom management, praise as positive reinforcement, digital citizenship, and digital indiscipline in education

Additional website of interest
https://loop.frontiersin.org/people/3438582/overview

See this presentation on the full schedule – Wednesday Schedule

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