Conclusion
In this study, general, non-targeted praise was most popular with teachers. However, many
researchers (Brophy, 1981; Gable et al. 2009; Hattie & Timperley 2007; Kalis, Vannest, & Parker
2007; Lannie, & McCurdy, 2007; Nicol & Macfarlane-Dick, 2005) have consistently reported that
general praise is not effective unless it is contingent on a behaviour or targeted on a task. Mueller and
Dweck (1998) argued against using ability feedback because of its damaging impact after a failure is
encountered and supported the use of effort feedback in the classroom. However, in this study only 6%
of the feedback given to students focussed on effort and was given publicly, which most students do
not prefer. Teachers should not use general, non-targeted praise and should use ability feedback for
younger students (grades 1-4) and effort feedback for older students (grades 5-7) despite their
limitations. Effort and ability feedback are and important part of classroom feedback despite both
having strengths and limitations.