Sam TC ch. 6

Sam
Chapter 6 Summary: Primal cues are essential to motivating someone to acquire the habits of practice that produce talent. Although these cues are very effective when it comes to giving someone the energy required for deep practice it is essential that those cues are received consistently so the high level of motivation can be sustained. There are many things that can be done to ensure that the primal cues have a constant presence in the lives of students. They can be reminded often of the potential that they are trying to reach. It is also helpful when students are given consistent opportunities to advance into new, more talented groups so as to maintain the principle of future belonging. Another important part of sustaining motivation is praise. Praise is essential, but must be given in the right form. Praise that is empty, excessive, or given before the student has done anything to deserve it is detrimental to motivation. When giving praise it is important that we praise effort and not intelligence. That way we encourage students to work hard rather than just try to appear intelligent and avoid being challenged.
Key Concept: In order for optimal skill development to happen practice habits must be encouraged through consistent motivation thanks to primal cues. Although praise is an important part of maintaining motivation too much praise or the wrong kind of praise can be counterproductive.
Key Terms: Sustained Ignition
Making Connections: This chapter helped me realize just how critical praise is. I always knew it was an important part of helping someone improve, but i had never really thought about how praise can actually demotivate someone. As a result of what I read I want to be more thoughtful and sincere when i praise someone for their efforts.