Most trainers know and use "verbal reinforcement." When a student gives a desired response by voicing a correct answer, or trying a procedure that has heretofore been a source of trepidation, a trainer may respond with "Right!" "That's it!" "Good job!" "Way to go!" "You got it!" or some other word of praise.

Such "reinforcers" warm up the class atmosphere and tend to bring out more involvement from learners. These verbal reassurances show the moral alignment of the trainer with learner progress, and may thereby bring out trust, a reduction of tension, and group solidarity.

Now let us observe something important here: it can be the way in which these reinforcers are delivered that gives them their power. Two truths we know:

1. "Actions speak louder than words."
2. "Enthusiasm makes the difference."

Ergo, we have the power to boost our laudations by varying the way in which we deliver them.

If we reinforce with believable enthusiasm, gusto and sincerity, our little tributes are more interesting and motivating. If we speak them dramatically, humorously, self-deprecatingly, with surprise, or with an onward-rushing acceleration or pitch build, we make happen a mini-scene that students feel, remember, and absorb at a gut level.

We can also add a hand clap to the varieties of pitch and vocal pacing. A finger snap. A professional finger, raised in surprise, as if to say, "Eureka!" A high-five, thumbs-up, or raised fist of victory. A lifted eyebrow or a tilt of the head. A shake of instructor's papers we are holding. A gasp of happy, comic surprise. These all bring the moment of student praise into high relief. If the energy build fits, you may even stomp your foot as you make an exclamation, or slap a desk. And as though out of control, you can tap the white board with a pointer in animalian excitement.

Is there any among us who doesn't remember a favorite teacher from the past who used techniques of this sort? Didn't this teacher usually command attention and achieve effective progress with a class?

Yes?

"Good! [hand clap] Hey, ya got it [finger snap]!"

These nonverbal adornments improve students' enjoyment of training and by doing so increase their learning.

It is often said that a teacher may be "a frustrated actor." Yet the drama of education, a utilitarian craft by comparison to the art world, has its own beauty and power. When it is well done, a well-taught training could leave many an actor in the frustrated role, because its positive purpose and after-class benefits to its audience are so undeniable. "So useful - and yet so fun!" That's good training.