Using the basic strategies and paying attention to the students needs is important to the students success.

This helps the instructor in the classroom by allowing each student be the best that they can possibly be at their individual level.

I have several students that are more then halfway with finishing our PT program who have still not received their "Trainee" registration. I always ask my students before we sign them up if they might have anything in their background that would affect their approval. I wish the SBOP would provide a comprehensive list of violations so we can share that with our students. That way the student can decide if they want to take a chance and continue with the program. I know felonies have an affect but for example 1st DWI offense is not a felony unless other people were harmed. These students really want to make a change in their life. I would just like to be able to tell them with confidence that they should continue with our program despite a questionable background.

For someone who personally is more of an intrinsically motivated learner, do other instructors feel that certain extrinsic motivators are better than others. I've seen the suggestion that you ask the students to see what they value, but is there an overall trend? I work on a campus with an extremely diverse student population and have tried a variety of ideas: guest speaker round tables, certificates, on campus recognition, but nothing has really taken off. Also we have no budget so it has to be extremely low or no cost. I realize there's not one winning answer, but if you've had success with something I'd love to hear about it.

MOTIVATING YOUR STUDENTS IS IMPORTANT. IT WILL HELP THEM STAY FOCUSED AND INTERESTED IN YOUR CLASS.

An instructors place is to put emphasis on the learning of the students.

making sure that students understand, that the instructor is there to help, and not fail them is key

Respecting the students, is one of the best ways to earn their trust, to be able to educate in a manner where everyone benefits.

Schools and colleges exist for the sole purpose of servicing students. Without students there are these institutions would not exist. The benefits and experiences that students gain from their educational institution prepare them for the real world after their education is complete. It is essential that students received a positive educational experience. A positive educational experience consist of treating students with dignity and respect. This is a basic human necessity and right.Giving students clear directions on how to solve their problems and issues. Give timely answers to students’ questions and regular feedback on their progress. .

One method I use to emphasize the validity of my course material is to list skill sets that can be used on a resume from the current class. An activity that could motivate students when experiencing burnout might be to have them create a cumulative list of skills acquired thus far in their training.

Once a student of mine had his head down. That's against school policy. However, it was obvious to me that he genuinely felt bad. After asking him if he was okay and finding out he was not at all, I bought him a sprite and found a quiet place for him to rest. He is graduated now and loyal to me to a disproportionate degree....just from that one act of empathy. In fact, the entire class was impressed. Now, I did not care for him out of an agenda but out of concern. Just another example of seeing our adult learners as individuals with different needs on different days.

the one challenge that i see as an instructuor , is keeping all types of learning styles engaged in the lectures. some adult learners ; have a different outlook than other younger students.

Does anyone know how to train elephants? For those who do not know how to train elephants let me explain. When a baby elephant is born, trainers will tie a short rope around the baby elephant’s leg staked to the ground. The baby quickly will learn they can only go so far in life and not any further. When the elephant grows up the rope that was holding the baby elephant could be torn away from the stake; however, the elephant has already believed they can only go this far in life. Reality is that the adult elephant can break away and do anything. I do not know if it was a teacher, a parent, family, or whoever, but many students have a metaphoric rope tied around their leg. Many have been told education is not for them. They can’t learn. It is not for them. The truth is they can do anything they would like, they are not baby elephants anymore! The mystery of mastery is repetition. Dr. Adrian De Grot McDonald workers struggle at first, six weeks later they are board because the job is so easy. Everyone can learn! Neuroplasticity of the brain happens at any age. To thy own self be true. William Shakespeare If it takes 7 times 70, do that. Of course students get the Paul Harvey version, “The rest of the story.” Please share your motivational story!

This module reminded me to seek out each of my student's similarities and differences.

I try and query the students about what their expectations are from the class, not just on a piece of paper but actually have a discussion about what they want to get out of the class. If the expecations are not in line with the learning objectives I try and explain how what we plan on learning may benefit them in some way either now academically or later in their career. By linking some practical piece to the learning objectives, they are typically more satisfied as customers and their expectations are met early on.

I find that by sharing my experiences within my career allows the students to see what is possible and achievable in their own careers.

I always provide feedback no later than the next time the class meets. It's important for the student to realize their performance.

As an instructor I feel it is important to maintain professionalism and understanding when dealing with students who have transportation issues, children at home to take care of, issues at work that they bring to the classroom. I meet with my students regularly and LISTEN to what they have to say and offer ways to deal with these situations.

What do you find motivates adult career students to produce their best work in and outside of class in small groups?

What techniques do you use to get your students to come back to class week after week?