motivation
Announce the topic in an informal manor, then illustrate the need for the knowledge, or the "why". Then begin to clearly explain the topic and answer the questions that students begin to have. "Buy in" and the desire to learn dramatically increase if the student knows where the topic is going and how it applies or will apply to them.
When it's something that I really need them to get, I try also selling it as one of the most important things I ever learned, something that benefits me both at work and at home. I really try to get buy-in for subjects before I teach them. I act like it's important. I think, though, that you have to also let students know when part of a topic is less important -- it builds credibility if you don't try to sell 100% of the book/course/topic as critically important. Some points are just interesting, some make them more well-rounded individuals, and some are just author's opinions.
If you act like its important,it will be.
Could not agree more. I always ask myself why is this important, whats in it for them, and where are you going to use this information and skills.
