Motivating by Adding Value
I have found that my students are really motivated to learn when they fully grasp how the learning will add value to their lives. For some that value is job security or promotion; for some it is enriched personal relationships. Show them "What's in it for me?" and they are more likely to work hard to learn the material or skill.
Hi Jessica,
I like "shock and awe" in my teaching as well. This technique really helps students to see relevancy as they move through the course. I want them to see what the real world is all about.
Gary
I teach a class on Career Development and I have realized that the motivating by adding value is really what works! I use the shock and awe of how life is in the real world and bring stories that the students can relate to. The students are engaged and really gearing up for their professional future!
In my classes students are seeking to motivate others to become better individuals. I find that offering stories regarding my past experiences motivating individuals really provides them with something to relate to. They need to hear these success stories and understand the wonderful feelings associated with helping a person. For many of these students they are still trying to figure out where their motivation to join the field is coming from, other than money. Like any other program that a person begins, I want them to find a reason to be intrincially motivated. I want them to attend class purely for their enjoyment and because they cannot wait to pursue their own success stories in the field. Helping them to see how important they can become in another person's life is a great way to help them buy into the material they are learning. This is an especially good tactic to use when the class they are currently in does not cover the specific subject matter that they find the most interesting.
I agree that the statement "what is in it for me?" comes up daily. I find it sometimes takes a bit more of story telling to convince the student it is important. Teaching math to unmotivated students, for example, takes a good story of how math saved your life or something.
Hi Steven,
Well said. The old saying about the radio station, WIIFM (What's In It For Me) is exactly what you are talking about. You have it nailed in terms of showing them the "value added" part of their instruction.
Gary
