Pay as you learn -- do schools give kids too many rewards? [Independent.ie]
- Published: 09 June 2010
Teachers used to rely on the stick to keep order in classrooms. But with that option now closed there is concern that some have come to rely too heavily on the carrot.
Most schools now have elaborate reward schemes, and well-behaved pupils are liable to return home garlanded with 'pupil of the week' prizes, merit awards of varying descriptions, and other gongs.
If they are particularly good they may acquire enough points for a CD voucher or a trip to the cinema. And they may even receive prizes for not behaving badly.
But now some educationists believe that the Oscar-winner's approach to education -- where even crèches have graduation ceremonies -- has gone too far.
Full Story: www.independent.ie
