Motivation and Momentum Hand in Hand
Its easier to keep a rolling log moving than it is to start a stationary log rolling. Once students are motivated, keep the momentum going by change, intrigue, surprise, reward...whatever it takes. This also spurs the instructor on to think of new creative approaches to keep themselves interested. Have the students expect the unexpected in a positive way. The urge to learn feels like the urgency to turn the pages in a really good book. Its best when they are salivating for the next peak at what is coming next. Then just as they think they have it all figured out - surprise them yet again. I am always on the search for new "positive surprise tactics" - any ideas would be greatly welcomed.
Hi Pamela,
You are right about how to keep the students motivated and moving forward in the learning. I use a number of different games to help the learn. Games like Jeopardy which is in a PP format where you load in your questions and answers. It plays just like the TV games. Creating competition with these types of games really get the students involved. Another thing I do is to assign special projects to student groups. They then present to the class in a panel format. This helps the students that are shy to be able to present since they are up front with other students, sitting down, with a table in front of them. All these items help the students to be comfortable in sharing. Creates teamwork and excitement for the students.
Also, you can create special event days or themes where students can have some fun and show what they have learned.
Gary
