Short timers disease.
Towards the end of a students journey, they can sometimes lose focus of the big picture. Distracted by the drone of day-in day-out work/school schedule, it can be difficult to motivate them. What are some motivational methods you have used to get them back on track?
Hi Jessica,
Sometimes "short timers" are a challenge since they are almost out the door yet have to complete the course. Sounds like you have a good handle on how to keep them engaged right up to the end of the course.
Gary
The course I teach is at the end of my students curriculum, so I get a lot of 'short timers'. I like to bring in other professionals from my field and do as much 'hands-on' as possible to keep the students engaged and thinking about the next step in their careers.
I politely remind them that the "real world" application of their skill will in be their hands very soon and ask them if they think they are truly ready for that. In many cases this leads to the discussion of the question: what it means to be "ready" in our profession.
Hi Michael,
By using the approach you propose you are giving them an opportunity to see relevance to what you are teaching. This is a key component to learning. Through your personal examples you are showing them how what you went through enabled you to be the success you are today. All of this is a part of the maturation process needed by the students. Good job.
Gary
I would attempt to raise the bar. If the course challenges them enough they won't be able to sit back and coast to the end of the course. It may also be helpful to reinforce why they are here and give examples of when you were in their shoes.
Good point. Sometimes it seems that expecting too much might cause students to become boggled down or discouraged, but I can definately see how raising the bar will drive students to stay motivated and do more.
Hi James,
It is true that everyone wears down as they proceed through any kind of sequence, be it exercise, dieting or school. It is the "hitting the wall" problem.
I have found that when my students start to get tired I bring in a dynamic guest speaker, such as a former student, to talk about their success. This really perks up the students. If I can I may take the students on a field trip to achieve the same effect.
If none of the above are available to me I may take a portion of a class meeting to go into small groups and do a case study/problem solving exercise for a change of pace. This helps students to refocus.
I also may have a snack/pizza break for a few minutes to let the students relax in the class setting talk among themselves and enjoy some food.
All of these things can serve to refresh the motivation of the students.
Gary
One tool I employ to help the students is to keep them occupied with challanging work...
In the shop I will add some problems that are a level above the diagnosis they have been required to learn and master and watch as they focus on the problem to find a solution...busy will keep their minds off of the graduation short timers syndrome...they will have an inner desire to prove they can meet the challange. If you set the bar higher they will strive to achieve.
