Definition
A behaviorist teaching technique in which a desired behavior is followed by something the learner values—such as praise, a good grade, or recognition—so that the behavior is more likely to be repeated. The reinforcer is added after the behavior occurs, strengthening the link between the action and the reward.
Plain English
When a student does something well, the instructor responds with something good—like praise or recognition—so the student is more likely to do it well again next time.
Context Anchor
Seen in instructor training when discussing how flight instructors encourage correct student actions and build reliable flying habits.
Derivation
From Latin 'positivus' meaning 'placed' or 'added,' and 're-' (again) plus 'fortis' (strong). Together: 'making stronger by adding something.' This fits the technique exactly—you add something pleasant after a behavior to strengthen it.
Why Pilots Care
Instructors who apply positive reinforcement build student confidence and accelerate skill acquisition more effectively than criticism alone.
Analogy
Like giving a dog a treat immediately after it sits on command, so the dog sits more often.
Intuition Check
Positive does not simply mean cheerful or nice here. It means something is added after the behavior, and reinforcement means the behavior becomes more likely to happen again.
Example Sentence 1
The instructor used positive reinforcement by praising the student immediately after a smooth crosswind landing.
Example Sentence 2
During the debrief the CFI applied positive reinforcement by highlighting the student's precise altitude control on the last approach.