Be the Example
We cannot motivate students if we are not motivated ourleves. Walking into a classroom and expecting the student to have high energy and be eager to learn is unfair if we do not exude it as instructors. We have to be prepared to leave all distractions outside the classroom and provide a motivating and positive expereince for our students.
I have realized after many years of teaching that students want to know that their instructor is not only motivated as a teacher but as a practitioner of the subject, as well. As a writing instructor, I am reminded of this when my students ask me to read some of my own professional writing to them. I feel energized and even a little nervous sometimes about their opinions of my work, but this practice can be so motivating for both me and my students.
Christopher,
Being a model is an essential part of the total educational process. Modeling expected language, dress, and behavior based upon the expectations of the field helps ease the transition of students to the workplace because they will know what they need to do to fit within the field.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
The instructor may want the students to act professionally. Especially if they will be going into a field where professionalism is essential. If you try too hard to reinforce this in class you may end up in an antagonistic situation with the student. However, if you become an example of being professional you can get the point across in a different way.
Jeanette,
So true and critical if we are going to be the learning leader of the class. Our focus need to be accurate and our enthusiasm for what we are teaching at a high level. This way we set the tone for the class to come.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Although it may be difficult, it is true that when you walk into your classroom, you must be completely focused on your class and not on what you will be having for lunch or how you are going to grade tomorrows homework assignment. Less distractions helps you present an interesting and hopefully learning experience for your students.
Luz,
I compliment you for your efforts to always be a model whether in school or in your own life. You are impacting the lives of many people as a result of your desire to be the best person and professional that you can be. I wish you much success in your future.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Thats my number one rule, as a single mother to 3 wonderful girls, being the example has been my biggest role in the personal and professional matter. Let the students know that you also as their instructor have to follow rules and policies just like they do.
Srey,
Good strategy to share your own success strategy for learning the material.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I also tell them how I suceeded by having learned this material.
I like this approach and will find a way to do this with my students every day. But also let them that they will make mistakes and that is ok.
Gary,
These are great ways to show application and value to what you are teaching, not to mention students love to hear these stories as they motivate to do even better in the class. They can see themselves in these stories as you share them.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I love to share my past sucesses with students to show them their goals can be had and that my efforts were not fruitless.
John,
Right you are so we need to bring our A game to every class if we are to demonstrate to our students our passion for our field.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I agree, you must be enthusiastic every day even on the days you may not feel very up beat. We are the example everyday.
Abigail,
Great point and one we need to always remember. If we do not bring enthusiasm or passion to the classroom and apply both to what and how we teach then it is for sure the students won't be engaged.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
