National 4-H Recognition Model

Unit 4: Awards and Recognition
Lesson 1: National 4-H Recognition Model

Recognition in 4-H is the encouragement and support for learning. It comes as a result of participation in educational experiences. The National 4-H Recognition Model (http://www.national4-hheadquarters.gov/library/4h_recmo.pdf), provides a framework for recognizing 4-H youth for their participation, progress towards goals, achievement, peer competition, and cooperation.

Recognition for 4-H youth is based on these beliefs:

Everyone needs to be recognized at some time; the recognition
needs of each individual vary
Recognition builds positive self-concept
A balance between intrinsic (self-evaluation) and extrinsic (rewards given by others) recognition is essential
Recognition is more meaningful when it occurs soon after it is
earned and is related to a specific task
Recognition is more meaningful when given by someone closely
related to the person.
Recognition motivates people to excel and take worthwhile risks
Individual choices in learning and participation need to be allowed and recognized

The Model's Five Aspects of Recognition (with examples)

Participation in educational experiences. (4-H member card; Name in club newsletter; Saying, “We’re glad you’re here!”; Membership year pins)
Progress toward personal goals. (Diamond Clover; Project completion; Certificate of progress)
Achievement of generally recognized standards of excellence. (Project pins for achieving standard of excellence; Excellent/Very Good/Good ribbon awards; Opportunity to serve as junior leader to teach others)
Peer competition. (Fair ribbons for exhibits; Awards for judging competition;
Selection for a major 4-H trip by portfolio)
Cooperation (Club awards for teamwork or team project completion; club celebration or party)

Hands on the World Recognition is an acknowledgement and affirmation of the personal growth in an individual. It is important for adults who work with 4-H'ers to provide appropriate recognition to all participants in ways that are most meaningful to the individual!

As you recognize youth in your club, look for ways to expand the types of recognition you Fish provide. Research shows that 4-H’ers first need to learn cooperation skills, before they become involved in competitive and individual learning experiences. Some youth prefer competition, others prefer cooperation, but it’s all about balance.

Thanks to Kendra Wells for writing this lesson (01/22/07)

If you have a questions or comments please contact Volunteer Coordinator, Dan Tabler at dtabler@umd.edu , or by calling 302-856-4513 or Kendra Wells at klwells@umd.edu .

Click Ideas for Club Level Recognition to go to the next lesson.

For more information, contact Lisa Dennis

Last updated: 06/13/2009