Motivating instructors are people that find a way to make the student connect with the material in a way that leaves them wanting more. I always leave my students at the end of each day with the " Thought of the Day ". This is usually a thought, question or hypothetcal question that makes them think from the time they leave my class until the next class. This usually starts the next class with a variety of thoughts or opinions about whatever the thought of the day was on the prior class.
As previously mentioned, it has also been my experience that students respond well to enthusiasm. Enthusiasm and passion for the subject is contagious. I also purposefully look for ways to discuss topics in new ways using a variety of media so as to also keep my enthusiasm for the material. I also use assignment feedback as a way to make personal connections with each student. When possible I make connections between classroom discussions and what I know about the student's career path and/or experience. Students do seem more motivated to participate in class when they see that I am making a special effort to relate the material to them in a way that is practical, relevant, interesting and fun!
I like to motivate my students by providing words of encouragement during our lecture sessions, either for there participation in the lecture, and/or their attendance to the lecture. I also provide thought out feedback on assignments in areas that can enhance their assignments. Also I point out ways to build of things they have been able to accomplish in the class from the beginning and be for them to be happy about their progress.
I think that asking the students what we can do to help them and also asking their opinions on classroom work may motivate them in alot of ways. If they do not show interest, this may be a good way of getting them involved and make them more interested.
Me too, when they begin to understand the information and then apply it that is a great moment
Share the good and bad. Some worst case life experiences turn out to be very important experientail learnings.
To be a motivating instructor your to show more than anything your passion for the field to show that the reason the students is entered the field is because of the excitement that can be found there. Also showing a passion to teach it will help with motivation and your want to express information to help the student learn.
Hi Jamie,
You are on the right track with your approach to the classroom. I know your students are engaged and appreciate your excitement about the field and how you deliver the content. This is what makes teaching fun for everyone. Keep up the energy!
Gary
I like to find something I have in common with the student. Build on that. Get them excited and interested.
I have so much energy as an instructor it is contagious! At the end of a class I usually like to use a cliffhanger. For example, I will tell half of an interesting story and leave the second half for the next class. I also frequently hand out prizes for difficult correct answers which could be an avocado (for what food contains a lot of potassium etc) or a breast cancer key chain. I try to be the best instructor that I can be intertwining class content, fun, real world experiences and applicableness all in 1 exciting class. I want students to look forward and be engaged by my class as well.
I try not to spend a lot of time lecturing, either. I have to do some lecturing in order to cover the chapters, but I like to set a side a big chunk of time for students to work in groups on projects. Students generally like engaging their peers, and it's better to structure classes so that the social instinct reinforces learning, rather than undermining it. I also have them work on case studies and present them in class. Presenting with their peers (as opposed to alone) in front of a group helps them overcome public speaking fears and actually fosters excitement, rather than anxiety.
Lead by example. Verbal and nonverbal communication skills show students how motivated you really are. If you bring the "happy face" to class, it's contagious to your students. Check your personal problems at the door.
give students your life experiences in the field you are teaching.
I agree. We need to make sure the students appreciate the relevance and importance of the course. Without this they will loose their motivation. Your idea of selling the next day is interesting. It is possible the student will look forward to the next class meeting.
For me, enthusiasm, animation, and a clear love for the course materials is a powerful motivator for many of my students. I remember all too well instructors I had at college who seemed to dread each class session and saw us as interlopers, as inconveniences, and that is how, in turn, I viewed their courses and their course materials. I am either blessed or cursed with an inability to teach things (or indeed to perform many other tasks) if I do not like the material being presented. My wife tells me that I am a terrible liar. Luckily, I need not deal with any of that as a teacher. As the course says, if I do lose my enthusiasm for my present material, I need regear and regain my "love of the sport." For me there is no other way.
I do my best the 1st day to build rapport and discover each students motivation for coming to school. I show them how they all have a common goal but specific personal reasons for attending.
Using enthusiasm when you teach. Showing the students that you are excited about what you are teaching will get them excited as well.
I only know of one technique for me and that is believing in what I am teaching and providing for my students. I find that most can spot a fake a mile away. I do not function on the infomercial technique of 'selling' the subject matter, but rather by relaying my own experiences and watching for the ideas and comments of my class. They just see and feel my excitement and honesty.
I usually keep my students motivated by encouraging them to ask me questions during the lecture. I do use a powerpoint slide show, but after a each slide I usually pause and then I ask a couple of questions. Sometimes I would write on the white board, or I might use the overhead projector to write the questions I would like the students to think about.
I like the exturnal motivation from the students it was presented vary well
