Elaine Rivera

Hello Sondra, It a challenge indeed to find ways to motivate a student who does not seem to be interested in the subject matter. Being new at this, I would probably ask them to read the subject matter ahead, submit the answers to the questions at the end of the book. This will force them to read. Open discussion then follows where everyone is allowed to participate. I always make sure to acknowledge everyone's effort. If one makes a mistake, stirring him/her gently to the right helps them along without pointing to them out blank they were wrong. I'd even ask the "slower" people in my class to be my demonstrators when explaining a concept to them so they too would understand the topic. It's nice to keep the discussion light and fun and at the same time instructive. Any other ideas I can benefit from?

Gary Meers, Ed.D.

Brian,
Good point about needing to find the right balance with each student so they feel a part of the class while not being allowed to dominate. Always a challenge for instructors.
Gary

Dr. Gary Meers

Brian Lemke

Challenging students most often want to feel as though their opinions and views are noticed and valued, often finding a way to highlight a few of these gives that student value. This is often a fine line and if given too much attention many other students will lose interest or even respect.

Gary Meers, Ed.D.

Bernadette,
Good advice and for many students this is an effective way to get them involved and invested in the course.
Gary

Dr. Gary Meers

Bernadette Cipriani-Major

By making them in charge of a certain area of the class. Maybe to be a teachers assistant or break monitor. This allows them to follow policies because they have a little authority and feel important