motivator or cheerleader?
I am a very upbeat person and tend to try to keep my students on the optimistic side of things. When they start to complain about how much home work they have, I remind them that in x-amount of weeks it will be all over, and they will be that much closer to graduation and into their careers. I also remind them that without practicing by doing homework, they might not retain the knowledge necessary to compete for their jobs.
Some students appreciate this motivation, others find me too "cheery" I have trouble finding a mid-point.
I think I understand the dilemma you face. I don't think that there is a clear distinction between being a motivator or a cheerleader. Urging students on could be termed motivation or cheerleading.
You should be applauded for your efforts, and you're right, its important to find a balance. My issue isn't being too cheery. Its maybe being too matter of fact. And, like you, I try to find a balance, to do my best to urge the students on.
Hi Regina,
I really support your position on meaningful assignments. We need to strive to create those types of assignments for all of our classes. All of us have had assignments that we knew were time wasters and were not going to be read by the professor but we had to do them anyway. This is not the way to treat students.
Gary
I have been in that same situation. I also remind them of the same items you have but I try to not sugar coat it too much. I also tell them that this is college and these are the expectations of college. If I did not challenge them and encourage their success I would not be doing my job. With that said every assignment I give I make sure it has a clear purpose and value to their education. There is nothing more frusterating than as assignment that just feels like a time killer to the students.
Hi Jessica,
I believe being cheery is better than being dismal anytime. Even if some students don't appreciate your attitude all the time at least they know you are consistent in your feeling about them and their success. You will win them over when they start having success. They will smile eventually. I'm sure of it. Keep up the smiles.
Gary
