My interest in motivation and the role rewards and emotion play continues. Effortful control, literacy, and fear all have roots in these processes. Genetics seems to influence some of them, but education has incredible potential to enhance and develop motivation, through the use of emotional connection, relationship building, creativity, and goal setting. I'd like to know more to help my faculty learn ways to capitalize on ways that the brain works best, to work with teams to create programs and interventions that help students overcome learning obstacles, and to support my district's efforts to create exemplary schools where students' learning differences are affirmed and supported through experiences and collaboration with others.
Hi Carol,
ReplyDeleteI read about study a few years ago that supports the notion that “smiling” promotes a positive affect not only within the “smiler” but also within those around the “smiler.” The headline is “Happiness is Contagious”-Study published by British Medical Journal. You’ll find the article at website Positive Psychology at Work.
http://positivepsychologycoachingblog.com/
You’re right motivation is “is a fascinating, complicated business.”
Keep smiling!
Sharon
Hi Carol,
ReplyDeleteAs an administrator your influence on staff motivation is huge. For the most part I have had the good fortune to work with administrators with positive outlooks who were able to lift the spirits of everyone in the building even in difficult times. Years ago as a young teacher I worked in a 100 year old, broken down building. The principal's “we’re all in this together; let’s make the best of it” attitude made a bad situation almost fun! She is still an inspiration 25 years later. From your blog entries I can tell that your teachers are lucky to have you - someone who is forward thinking and has the self-awareness of the importance of positive psychology in herself.
Have a great Winter Break,
Sharon