Improving Science Performance of Class VI Students through Positive Reinforcement: An Action Research

Ugyen Norbu*

Dorikha Primary School, Samtse, Bhutan

*Corresponding Author: Ugyen Norbu, Dorikha Primary School, Samtse, Bhutan.

Received: October 30, 2025; Published: November 14, 2025

Abstract

This study examined the effectiveness of positive reinforcement strategies - specifically the Weekly Star Badge System and Verbal Praise - on improving the Science performance of Class VI students at Dorokha Primary School. A convergent parallel mixed-methods design was employed; wherein quantitative and qualitative data were collected concurrently from 58 students (28 males, 30 females).

The quantitative component consisted of a pre-test and post-test standardized assessment, while the qualitative component comprised student perceptions and behavioral responses collected through focus group discussions and classroom observations.

Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and a paired-sample t-test, which revealed a statistically significant improvement in post-test scores compared to pre-test scores.

Qualitative data, analyzed using thematic content analysis, indicated increased student motivation, confidence, and engagement in science learning as a result of the reinforcement strategies. The findings demonstrate that positive reinforcement significantly enhances both academic performance and classroom participation. The study concludes that positive reinforcement is an effective and practical pedagogical strategy for improving science learning outcomes. Further, it recommends its structured integration into regular classroom instruction to promote sustained academic growth and learner motivation.

Keywords: Positive Reinforcement; Science Achievement; Student Motivation; Classroom Engagement; Behavioral Improvement

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Citation

Citation: Ugyen Norbu. “Improving Science Performance of Class VI Students through Positive Reinforcement: An Action Research". Acta Scientific Paediatrics 8.12 (2025): 11-18.

Copyright

Copyright: © 2025 Ugyen Norbu. This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original author and source are credited.