Keep the student motivated
....and they will come.
I'll play a time game with my students we'll time how long it takes me then see if they can beat it, they all want to beat your time.
I also take my students out on field trips here and there throughout the quarter. I teach massage therapy and I like my students to learn the importance of reaching out into the community and donating their time. We usually participate in local marathons (giving the athletes pre and post-event massages) as well as local fund raising walks. The students really seem to enjoy getting out of the classroom as well as giving back to the community. I feel this helps build their character as massage therapists.
I agree with you that field trips are kep to keeping the students motivated. I teach court reporting and most of my students had never been to court, and had never seen a court reporter work. It really opened their eyes, especially when the saw the photos of the victim with his neck slashed from ear to ear. They all loved it and made them excited to be in the field that the have chosen. It also gave them some ideas as to whether they may be better suited to do depositions. All in all, they returned to school all fired up. It really does work. I, would note, that only the students that had caught up with their work could go on the field trip.
Having a guest speaker who is working in the field they are training for can be a great motivator. Yes, I worked (and engage in continuing education) in this field, but because I am their instructor, I don't have the credibility that someone who does it day in and day out has with them. Also, this keeps the "dream" alive for them.
Hi Alicia,
You're right, for most of our students we are their only cheeleader and motivator. We must be their biggest fan! Rahh Rahh Rahh!!!!
Patricia
Your right. We have to keep our students motivated, sometimes we are the only people in their lives that help them in their choosen career paths. Keep them motivated and keep cheering for them.
Hi Kristen,
They get that moment on field trips, wow, this is what I will be doing once I graduate. So motivating!
Patricia
I often take my students out into the field on trips to keep them motivated and working hard towards their goals. Their motivation comes from within when they can see what they can become. I love it!
Kristen
