Building confidence = Motivation
It seems that any student that has issues in class, lacks the confidence to try for fear of failure. In those situations, I will stand with them, urge them to push the button - and fail or succeed, once they realise that the world did not end, they learn something.
I am not one for just giving an answer. I try to present the thought process, allowing students to problem solve each small question. Then, as the light comes on, I stand back, let go of the bicycle and they find they are riding by themselves. I then point out how little I presented in the way of answers - that they figured it out themselves - that is when they get excited - they feel a success.
Many students have issues in classes, and this can lead to lack of motivation. As an instructor, we need to motivate the student, give them examples of how they can be successful in your class, and constantly monitor their progress. As they are progressing, it is imperative to reinforce to the student on how you notice the improvement in their work, and this will also increase motivation.
We seem to be able to make students understand through examples of exercise and weight lifting - the harder they work the better they get. The link to physical discipline seems to help with motivation. Pat J
I have a tough project in my class that is something the students have already done in a prior class, but they seem to have trouble remembering the correct steps and math to solve the problem. I stay close to them and encourage them to ask questions if they are getting stumped. Seeing them get the right answer and correct measurement after the struggle and attempt really pays off as I see the "weight" lifted off of their shoulders and then I give them a positive verbal reinforcement. They feel good and seem to excel from that point forward.
your techinque is a good way too get the students to beleave in us and them self.
I do the same in my classroom
Hi Chris,
I like the example you gave about riding the bicycle alone for the first time. These "aha" moments are what keeps us coming back to the classroom day after day.
Gary
