Get Your Students Hired
I believe our task as a motivator has become a difficult one when dealing with generation Y students. They seem to be less focused and need more guidence to stay on task. More individual attention does not seem to help. My fear is that when we become more flexible to accommodate thier mindset, we tend to make allowances that seem to be counter productive, but if we don't we loose thier interest. Has Anyone else encountered this problem?
I find that by constantly prodding their knowledge on what has been delivered they tend to grasp the material better. If they don't seem to comprehend what has gone on, I reexplain on a one on one and reassure them that they WILL get it with repeditiveness. I particularly try to get one on one with the ones that seem to gaze off during lecture, as I see this as a sign of confusion. If all else fails I give them more accountability for the material and that seems to get the fire lit.
I also make sure they have encouragement and a feeling of pride for earning a grade or completing a task.
Hi Fred,
The key to gen Y students based upon my experience has been to give them opportunities to immediately apply their newly acquired knowledge or skills. This group of students are looking for relevancy to what they are learning. By establishing rapport with these individuals you will be able to better direct your instruction to their needs.
Gary
I agree. I have the advantage of being Gen X so i can relate with my students alittle better. What I have tried is the "hook" of a story. Something related to the content and waiting for awhile to tell the story. Or say next class I will show you how to...... Or Challenge them to "stump" me with a question next class.