Motivating Learners
What are some ways you can help your students to become motivated and excited about your course?
Efrain,
You approach is supportive to and for the students but in a way that gives them hope and encouragement if they are willing to put forth the effort. This sets up a situation that is positive and engaging for them as they progress through their studies.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I believe in the saying "inspiration creates inspiration". Some of the courses I normally tend to teach are considered the not so favorite of students, like chemistry and biochemistry for example. Majority come into the class thinking this is going to be a nightmare for them.
Whenever I see some of them struggle, I try to let them know that I truly am not smarter than any of them there. I once took biochemistry and chemistry for my first time also. I never imagined one day actually teaching the course, but yet here I am. I am extremely enthusiastic about the material I teach. So when I see a student struggling that is trying their best (reminds me of me back when I was a student struggling in difficult classes), I do my best to facilitate them with different approaches, and once I see that sparkle in their eyes that they sort of get it, I make it priority to remind them of how smart they are and that the only limits they truly have is put on by themselves. Knowledge is power, and every student has the potential to reach their goals they set for themselves.
Hi Helen,
A strategy I use for diverse learning groups like this is to put them into case study/problem solving groups. When they are given case studies to work through they start to respect and rely on each others experiences to solve the problem. They don't focus as much on the differences. I mix the groups up at different times because of the fact that they are cohorts. They need to learn to work with others not just the 3-4 students in their group.
Gary
Present & discuss the syllabus on day one to stress on the importance of the Clinical skills/ Knowledge to be gained in the current module. Motivate students by providing the same course in different formats.
Every cohort of students is different at our school where we have 36 students per class. Often the ages of students vary from 18 to 56. Some already have bachelor's degrees. What is a good motivational strtegy for such a diverse group?
I have learn to communicate with a student the best ways is listening observe offering our support to bettr themself
I like to use 'real life' examples within my instructional style to motivate and help the student relate what they are learning to how they are going to apply it in the work force.
Hi Clarence,
Seeing someone that has made it through the class they are in and is successful is powerful as you say. The seeing and listening to a role model is a great motivator. Thank you for your comments on how to create situations for students success.
Gary
Hi Jim,
Making that connection for students is critical. This lets them see the ROI that they are getting for their time and money.
Gary
Retention is a primary focus for higher education, particularly for Career College Faculty and Staff. Recruiting and retention become the "Gold Standard" for measuring campus achievement. Student motivation is a key element.
A motivated instructor sets the tone with "3M's" and students feed on success. The feeling of success is a palpable force that attracts potential applicants, brings student referals, and motivates students to excel through personal or academic difficulty. Success is the feeling of accomplishment in a job well done. I agree that recognition in the classroom builds success. I like to start the weekly quiz schedule with a short quiz on the course syllabus and prospectus that allows everyone to begin with 100%. I can verify that they understand this valuable introduction, while they feel relief and success in the outcome of the first class. As my college requires a Guest Speaker for community involvement, by the difficult third or fourth week I plan a visit from a successful graduate of the program. The difficult accomplishment has value. It helps to keep the focus on graduation and future employment. Plan the Work - Work the Plan!
Help the student understand how the material relates to his/her goals and ensure he/she can see progress.
Hi Melinda,
These are great tools to use with students. They like the opportunity to become involved and share what they have learned with others.
Gary
Hi Madeleine,
Thank you for the kind words, they are greatly appreciated. We have a wonderful opportunity to share our field with others while impacting lives and get paid for it. This is a great job, isn't it?
Gary
I have found that having class discussion and group work to be very successful. This enbles the students to place their questions and input out on the table for everyone to participate. The students truly value that their opinion has weight and motivates the students to share their ideas.
I always bring something tangible to present my lecture. It increases curiosity and understanding, thereby motivating my audience to be interested with the topics.
This is one of the greatest things I have learned from this course, the 3 Ms.
Your comment on teaching in all aspects of life
is commendable. It makes teaching relevant and easy to comprehend and remember. I use it especially in my EKG class.
I think presenting material in an enthusiastic and knowledgeable manner is essential for motivating learners. Another important aspect is showing learners how this information can apply to their situation/job in the work world.
Thanks,
Earnest J. Kendall
I have found that by remaining motivated and excited myself I can "infect" the class with the same energy. My leading by example with my enthusiasm I can reap excellent results in class.
Be passionate about the subject matter, be honest with them, and be enthusiastic.
