Student Motivation
What are some ways to motivate students who appear to be less engaged in class?
Hi Takamasa,
By using this strategy you will be able to develop stronger relationships with your students. I wish you much success during this next quarter.
Gary
Thank you for your reply. Your suggestion makes sense. Although I always try to learn students' names and faces as soon as possible, I have not initiated meeting with each of the students, only those who are experiencing difficulty with the course material. I will start implementing the practice this winter quarter.
Hi Takamasa,
I think you should meet and greet each student. I do this by arriving at the class early and chatting with the students before class starts. This helps me to get to know students better plus I can get a "read" on the students in terms of how they are doing in the course. This way I feel comfortable talking with problem students when I need to because we already have a comfortable relationship so I am able to concentrate on the issues with them without undue stress.
Gary
Would you suggest meeting each and every student in class, or just the "problem" students? In the latter case, you would be talking mainly about motivation, would you not?
I like this idea too. I'm going to give it a try.
Hi Nadege,
I have had the same results when I have met with my students individually. It takes some time but the results are well worth it. These visits really help to make the student instructor relationship stronger.
Gary
I think I will try those concepts.
Hi Gary,
I have met with my students individually in the past. I usually meet with my students at least twice a semester. I did notice when I do meet with my students one-on-one, they are open in asking questions in things they do not understand.
I believe this can establish strong teacher-student relationship. Students can see that their teacher care and are interested in what they do and accomplish.
Nadege
Hi Nadege,
You can use a number of different strategies to help with motivation.
You can have a private talk with students that appear unmotivated. Let them know you want to help them to be successful in the class. Often this individual attention is enough get them fired up about the class.
Create learning groups where students work together on projects or assignments. Working with 3-4 other students often gets the students more engaged.
Bring in guest speakers, like former students and have them tell their stories about being students and how the education they received helped them to achieve their career goals.
Have employers come in and lay out what is required of successful employees in the field. Have them talk about the benefits of being in the field and what the rewards are from working in the field.
Be enthusiastic about what you are teaching. Excitement is catching.
Hope these ideas help you. If you have any other questions let me know.
Gary
