Student Motivation: Praise for Effort or Intelligence. Which Works?

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Student Motivation: How praise for effort and intelligence affects student motivation. Useful tips for teachers and parents

Raising and educating students requires constant attention to how to motivate children to learn and develop. One of the most powerful tools in the hands of teachers and parents is praise. But do we always think about what kind of praise we use? Studies show that there is a difference between praise for effort and praise for intelligence, and it can be key to student success.

In this article, we will look at how different types of praise affect student motivation and how we can use this knowledge to create more successful and confident children. We will give you useful advice and practical examples to help you bring out the best in every child – both in the classroom and at home.

What is the difference between praise for effort and praise for intelligence?

Before we dive into specific strategies, let’s clarify what these two terms mean:

• Praise for effort: This is praise that rewards the work and diligence invested. Example: "You are working very hard, and the results show it!"

• Praise for intelligence: Here the focus is on the child’s natural abilities. Example: "You are so smart to solve this problem!"

The difference between them may seem small, but it plays an important role in how a child perceives challenges and setbacks.

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How does praise affect student motivation?

Research shows that students who receive praise for effort are more likely to see difficulties as an opportunity to learn. They believe that the more they try, the better results they will achieve. This is known as a "growth mindset", where intelligence and skills can be developed through work and persistence.

On the other hand, students who receive praise for intelligence tend to avoid difficult tasks because they fear that if they fail, it will show that they are not "smart enough." This is part of the so-called "fixed mindset", in which the child believes that their abilities are predetermined and cannot be changed.

What do the latest studies show?

In one of the latest studies, conducted with vocational education students, the effects of different types of praise were examined. The results show that:

1. Students praised for effort are more likely to choose tasks that allow them to learn something new. They see challenges as a chance to improve their skills.

2. Students who receive no specific praise (the control group) more often choose tasks where they can appear "smart." These students prefer safe tasks that they know they will complete successfully.

3. Students praised for intelligence do not always show a negative effect, but they are more likely to withdraw after failure. This is in contrast to those praised for effort, who show greater resilience and continue trying even in difficult situations.

Practical advice for teachers and parents

What can we learn from these results, and how can we apply them in our daily lives as teachers and parents?

1. Focus on effort, not results

Instead of saying "You are so smart!", try something like "I see that you are trying very hard, and that is paying off!". In this way, the child understands that success comes from their effort, not from innate ability. This gives them motivation to deal with difficulties.

2. Encourage children to enjoy challenges

Some children are afraid of mistakes, but if we teach them that setbacks are part of the learning process, they will begin to see them differently. Tell them that every attempt is an important lesson.

3. Use praise for intelligence with care

Praise for intelligence is not entirely "bad," but it should be used carefully. If we emphasize only the child’s natural abilities too often, it can make them withdraw from difficult tasks. Combine praise for intelligence with praise for effort to balance the impact.

4. Value progress, not just final results

Teachers and parents can play an important role by focusing on the learning process. Emphasize the small steps of progress that children achieve, not just the final results. This will help them build confidence and stay motivated.

5. Give specific feedback

Instead of general compliments, give children specific feedback. For example: "I really liked how you approached this problem – you analyzed it well and used an interesting strategy!". This way, the child understands exactly which skills they are developing and how they can improve them.

Praise is a powerful tool that can transform the way children see themselves and the world around them. Research shows that praise for effort often leads to more positive outcomes in terms of student motivation and resilience, but praise for intelligence can also be useful if used correctly. The key is balance and understanding the individual needs of each child.

Teachers and parents have a unique opportunity to shape children’s attitudes toward learning. With the right approach, we can help children develop a love of learning, confidence in their abilities, and resilience in the face of difficulties.

Sources used:

• Blackwell, L. S., Trzesniewski, K. H., & Dweck, C. S. (2007). Implicit theories of intelligence predict achievement across an adolescent transition: A longitudinal study and an intervention. Child Development, 78, 246-263.
• Yeager, D. S., & Dweck, C. S. (2012). Mindsets that promote resilience: When students believe that personal characteristics can be developed. Educational Psychologist, 47(4), 302-314.