Motivating students
Motivating students is something we all do in some form or fashion. One of the best motivators we as Instructors can do is to simply show recognition and appreciation for the students hard work. Being recognized for working hard and given a pat on the back will motivate students and makes them feel like their hard work does not go unnoticed. Sometimes a simple Thank You can work wonders in a students demeanor...
MICHAEL,
I have had the same type of student and I am always sadden when it is impossible to help them catch fire and be successful in class. As the first high school graduate as well as college graduate in my family everyday I was able to be in school was a gift. Many students today see school as an entitlement and by paying tuition they have bought an A. As we both know the real world does not operate that way so they have some tough times coming their way.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Students have to have self motivation. No matter how much you connect with them, bring in guest speakers, or work one on one eventually they revert back doing their own thing. I had one student barely passing with 60's tell me if he fails he would get kicked out of his parents house. Guess what? He failed. Nothing I did could motivate him.
Sonja,
Well said and something we instructors need to keep reminding ourselves about. We are the learning leader for our students and we need to keep encouraging them as we proceed through the course.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Wow. Greatly said. A simple thank you. I have found that if you respect the student they respect you. You now have your entire classroom supporting you because you support them in their educational goals.
Jeffrey,
You make a good point about something that is so basic yet critical to the success of students. We need to look for ways to recognize and reinforce our students so they will see they are valued and that they are making progress toward their career goals.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
