Motivation in the General Education Classroom
I teach Composition/Writing in a culinary school. My challenge is to illustrate how effective writing skills will help students advance in their culinary careers. I have found that the best way to do this is to use examples and create assignments that speak directly to the food service industry. I was curious to know if anyone had any other insights on motivating students in general education courses at career schools.
-Abigail
Abigail,
I would also suggest, having students be creative and be food critics and write articles or newsletters that can be sent out to the general student body. That way, they can take ownership over their work, and they will be developing a skill they will use in a future career!
April
Hi Abigail,
The method you are currently using is a very good one. Can you bring someone in from the field to reinforce what you are telling your students. That person could share examples of how effective writing skills has enhance and supported their career.
Gary
Hello Abigail
The student must be interested in the subject and have the willingness to achieve. If the student is not interested in the subject and lacks the motivation to learn, the challenge for the instructor is to motivate the non interested student and to keep the motivated student motivated. I teach on line and found that students who perform poorly are less motivated than a student who enjoys the subject.
Perhaps the less motivated students are weaker and need early intervention. You must identify those students early and send them an email indicating that you understand their academic position, and that you are open to assist. During your grading, you must point out their short comings, giving the student instructions how to correct problems. If the assignment is poorly done, you must offer the student a chance to re-do the assignment. This must be offered to all students. (This is a lot of work, but it must be done). The weaker students will learn how to do the assignments.
I found that my weaker student wanted to learn, but were more embarrassed about their shortcomings, this especially true with adults. If you appear willing to help, they will still resist. As long as you remain consistent they will listen, learn and achieve. You will see your results in the work of your students and you would have taught them how to compose. You would have provided the student a lifelong lesson for success.
Walter
