I think that one way to effectively motivate students is to set the tone early in the semester. The syllabus should clearly state learning objectives, course goals, and student expectations for the course. Explicitly communicate to students what they need to do to be successful in the class and achieve their personal goals. Instructors should capitalize on their students’ initial curiosity with an enthusiastic introduction of the course. This can easily be done by conducting class surveys or administering diagnostic tests to get a sense of what the students already know or believe about the course. These strategies can be used on first day of class and also when introducing a new topic. Another techniques that I find useful is varying my teaching methods. Instead of the traditional lecture, I incorporate academic activities that get students to actively participate in the class and allow for more immediate feedback. Incorporating problem-based learning, collaborative learning, experiments, and the use of technology such as clickers, allows for greater student interaction and the opportunity for students to practice newly acquired skills and knowledge. Supplementing my lecture with guest lectures, a panel discussion, or student presentations can break the monotony and minimize passive observation. used on first day of class and also when introducing a new topic. :-)
Karlee,
What are some ways you help your students with motivation?
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I think this is so important.
Making the learning environment fun and welcoming will motivate students to participate. Using examples that students can relate to will also motivate students because they feel comfortable about what they are inputting.
LaShondra,
A formula for student success. You are setting the tone for a positive learning experience by your students. This will get them engaged and focused on what is being taught.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I have learned that my presence is golden. So being there prepared, and willing with a smile on my face is my first motivation technique. Then always adding enthusiasm keeps the student wanting more.
Erin,
Great list of ways to get students involved in the course and helping them to see the value of the content being shared.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Some effective techniques are allowing students to talk about their own personal experiences, providing positive feedback and assisting them in trouble areas when necessary.
Seth,
Passion for your field and enthusiasm for teaching about it are elements needed for student centered learning. Your excitement will spread to your students and that sets up a positive learning environment.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
The simplest example is enthusiasm for a subject. A positive display of energy about a subject will likely reflect well towards encouraged students.
You are right Dr. Meers. I notice too that students seem to be put off slightly whenever an instructor does not know their names while referring to the other students in the class by name. Although students may not voice their diaspproval, it is clear they would have preferred that their names be known too, as an important member of the team.
Kola,
This form of recognition is very important to students. They see that their learning leader has taken the time to learn their names and then use those names as a part of class discussions. This is the human factor in being an educator of merit.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Students normally feel very happy when they are called by their first names to make comments particularly on subject matters in which the instructor knows they have adequate knowledge.
Having known the background of the students from the first class, usually, I use a variety of examples of situations that I had come across in industry that fit the subject matter. That way, some of the mature students in the class immediately relate to that and give their own examples too. At, times, one asks a student that has worked in such areas directly to share the experience in such areas in the past. The response is usually spontaneous.
Karina,
Right you are. The are essential if you are to be effective with your students.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Passion and enthusiastic. These are two powerful tools that all Instructors should have.
Marie,
This is the human factor in teaching and it is what connects us to our students. Your approach shows that you care about your students individually and that you are there to support their learning if they are willing to put forth the effort.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
On the first day of class I would share a personal story or two with my students...often an emotional one. As human beings this is one way we are all the same. They also had the chance to see me as a regular person. It was always a great way for me to connect with my students as many would end up sharing personal stories with me, allowing me to know them and able to connect with them. To this day, graduates come back and say that was what opened the door for more conversations.
Kyle,
Students really like and relate to stories from the field. These stories increase the value of the content to them because they learn through the stories how they can apply what is being taught.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Irving,
What are some methods that work for you and your students?
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
