POSITIVE REINFORCEMENT STRATEGIES AND CLASSROOM MANAGEMENT OUTCOMES IN PHILIPPINE ELEMENTARY EDUCATION: AN EXPLANATORY SEQUENTIAL MIXED-METHODS STUDY

Positive reinforcement is an important classroom management strategy that encourages desirable learner behaviors and promotes supportive learning environments. This study examined the implementation of positive reinforcement strategies and their relationship with classroom management outcomes at St. Christine Elementary School, Lianga, Surigao del Sur, Philippines, during the Academic Year 2025-2026. An explanatory sequential mixed-methods design was employed, involving 184 intermediate elementary learners and 20 school personnel respondents. Quantitative data were collected using a researcher-developed questionnaire and analyzed through descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, and analysis of variance, while qualitative responses were examined through thematic analysis. Results revealed that positive reinforcement strategies were implemented to the greatest extent (M = 4.54), particularly verbal praise, privileges, and non-verbal reinforcement. Classroom management outcomes received a high overall rating (M = 4.56). Significant positive relationships were reported between learners' academic performance and perceived reinforcement outcomes (r = .41, p = .012), teachers' classroom management styles and reinforcement outcomes (r = .46, p = .008), and reinforcement strategies and classroom management outcomes (r = .53, p = .004). Qualitative findings highlighted the importance of recognition and encouragement in promoting learner confidence, participation, and positive behavior. The findings suggest that positive reinforcement is associated with favorable classroom management outcomes and provide a basis for strengthening teacher professional development and school-based reinforcement practices.