An incentive to one teacher, might be considered a bribe to another. Not so fast, the only thing in common between an incentive and a bribe is that in the end a person receives something. Everything else about them is completely different. Bribes are gimmicks – and we know gimmicks do not work.
For today’s discussion let’s consider the following: Bribes address changing ‘bad behavior’ to ‘good behavior’. I admit, this sounds good to the teacher who has her hands full with students who are never in their seat, always seem to be talking, or take your pick of today’s challenge behaviors. The fix in the moment can be really tempting. But I ask you, do bribes impact all of the students in your class? Find the answer below.
Incentives change behavior. Why is that? Incentives are small, recurring options that are easily given and available to all students.
When I was in the 3rd grade, my teacher – Mrs. Christopherson – had a clawed foot bathtub in her classroom. It had pillows in it and a special bookshelf on one side. Anyone who finished their work before the end of the allotted time in class could show her their work and then hop in the tub to read, color or just sit quietly and relax while watching their classmates work. The incentive did not take away from the lesson, nor distract from working on assignments, instead it drove her students deeper into their course work. It was part of her classroom environment, waiting for its next student to take their turn.
Bribes are typically trade-offs; if you do this behavior, or you stop doing that behavior – I will give you this thing. Bribes only apply to the person who isn’t doing what is desired. Bribes also lose their effectiveness with increased need.
Incentives are for every student. They exist for one purpose — to be given. Incentives, due their nature increase in value over time. As students see friends and classmates receive incentives, the desire for them becomes greater, increasing their value.
Students need to be recognized for good work and good behavior.
How do you know if you are using Bribes or Incentives?
- Does it have a shelf life? Yes, it is a bribe.
- Does it increase in value after use? Yes, it is an incentive.
- Does it apply to every student evenly? Yes, it is an incentive.
- Does it exchange one behavior for another? Yes it is a bribe.
