Teacher preferences for various positive reinforcements

The present study investigated the relationship between applied behavioral training and reinforcement preferences of classroom teachers. Data obtained from the Positive Reinforcement Observation Schedule (PROS), a paired comparison task, indicated minimal differential reinforcement preferences for classroom teachers with no training, limited training, or extensive training in applied behavioral analysis. The results are discussed with reference to the educational implications of existing behavioral training programs and class-room practice.     

Positivity bias in higher education research

Many forms of bias have been identified in higher education research, and in educational and social research in general. This article identifies a further form of bias, positivity bias, and places it in this broader context. Positivity bias is the tendency, in some forms of published higher education research, to only or chiefly report examples of initiatives or innovations that worked and received positive evaluations. Empirical evidence of positivity bias, in the form of an analysis of a sample of published articles from selected higher education journals, is presented and discussed. Suggestions as to the causes of positivity bias and how it might be handled are presented.