How to motivate a student that is negative.
How do we as instructors motivate a student who has a negative outlook on any and all classroom activities and tests?
I believe one of the reasons why a student may act negatively in the classroom setting is because of prior classroom experiences. I would have a conversation with the student and ask them to give me a chance to create a new experience. I would ask the student why they decided to enroll in school and I would then ask the student to allow me to be instrumental in helping them accomplish the goal. I would then give the student a glimpse of the exciting information that will be discussed and learned during the term and encourage them to make a commitment to gain as much knowledge as they possibly could.
Gilbert,
Good list of ideas for getting a student engaged in the learning process. You are increasing the value of the course to such a student in a way that helps him or her see their future career opportunities.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Offer support and encouragement. Work on helping the student to see the value of learning as it relates to career growth and job opportunity. Seek input from student as to how the class/instructor/lesson can be more engaging to the student.
Valerie,
Sad to hear the end of this story but it is common because to assume responsibility for one's failure is not what a lot of students do. They want and do blame others for their own lack of self discipline, etc.. I commend your students for their patience and willingness to help. They are displaying strong character that will serve them well in their future endeavors.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Actually Gary, that is exactly how things turned out...her peers were very gracious in the beginning trying to undestand where she was coming from. BUT when the patience wasn't reciprocated, they grew tired of extending kindness and concern her way and she became very aware of their feelings. She left the program and blamed everyone else for her failure. Thank you for your helpful insight.
Valerie,
You ask a very good question that is challenging to answer. So much of it depends on the influence that a student like this has on other students. I would work hard to bring passion for the class and enthusiasm for teaching each time I meet the class. I would make sure to involve this student in all aspects of the class to the level she will participate. In addition, I would devote myself to supporting and encouraging the other students so they can overlook the negative attitude of this student and not get caught up in the failure web she is trying to cast. In short I would work hard to enjoy teaching the class and sharing my content and not let her spoil the class for others. In most cases peer pressure can often get this student to change or drop out because the rest of the class will not accept her influencing their learning.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I really don't have much experience in the teaching field however, in the small amount of time I have been teaching I have had to deal with a very negative student. I worked on getting to know her a little better and try to understand where all the anger and resentment was coming from. I never asked detailed, personal questions. I just let her talk. I always tried to treat her with kindness although it is very difficult at times. After 3 months I started to notice a small change of attitude. She showed a small amount of respect to myself and here classmates. Gary is correct in saying, in the end - it comes down to the student making the decision to succeed. My concern is how can we as teachers avoid this negativity affecting the other students?
Kristal,
Talk with such a student privately and try to get a read on where they are coming from. Ask for their cooperation in terms of them becoming a part of the learning community. If they don't respond then continue to support them just as you do for all of your students. In the end it is up to that student to be successful since he or she elected to come to college and pay tuition to receive an education. Their future is theirs to claim and no body but they can claim it.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
