ABSTRACT

Name : Rika Yuliana Safitri
Study Program : English Education
Title : Teachers’ Positive Reinforcement in English Class at

SMPN 7 Muaro Jambi

This qualitative case study examines the types and implementation of
positive reinforcement by English teachers at SMPN 7 Muaro Jambi. Data were
collected through four classroom observations (classes VIII A and VIII C) and
interviews with two English teachers. The findings reveal three types of positive
reinforcement: natural, social (verbal and non-verbal), and tangible reinforcement,
while token reinforcement was absent. Social reinforcement was most frequent,
with verbal reinforcement occurring 21-35 times and non-verbal 18-27 times per
40-minute session. Implementation showed systematic patterns: frequency
averaged 4.9-7.6 reinforcements per 5-minute interval, consistency through
equitable distribution, immediate timing for verbal responses and delayed for
written work, and adaptation based on student characteristics and language skills.
The study demonstrates substantial positive impacts on student motivation,
behavior, and participation rates across all activities, contributing practical insights
for enhancing English language teaching in Indonesian junior high school contexts.
Keywords: English language teaching, Positive reinforcement, Student motivation,
classroom implementation, Qualitative case study