How can a teacher's praise be more effective according to research on motivation?

Research on motivation highlights that praise can significantly influence students’ self-esteem and engagement. Specifically, when a teacher specifies particulars of a student's accomplishments, it demonstrates a deep understanding of the student’s effort and abilities. This type of concrete feedback not only validates the student’s hard work but also clarifies what behaviors or strategies are effective. It helps students understand their strengths and reinforces their motivation by connecting their effort to their success.

For instance, if a teacher says, "I really appreciate how you organized your presentation and included relevant examples," the student receives specific information about what they did well, which can motivate them to continue using the same strategies in the future. This specificity also encourages a growth mindset, as students can see that their efforts lead to positive outcomes, thus fostering a greater willingness to take on challenges.