I agree, however I still try to make them partisipate, probly more than those that are paying attention.
Stephanie, So true. We've got to focus on the students who really want to be there - learning from us. Sometimes it's tough when so many of our students are not truly interested in all that we have to offer, but our focus should not be 100% with them.
Dr. Melissa Read
This is very true that you can only control your own actions. I agree with the one on one to try to make the student understand how important the information is. Some students are just in school for the wrong reasons but you can't let it effect you because there are numerous other students there that want to learn for the real reasons!
Jan, Yes, sometimes one on one time can help instructors diagnose the true challenges that students face and that stand in the way of desired learning outcomes.
Dr. Melissa Read
Julie,
The desire to learn is so important to us as instructors. I have had this issue and I am certain that all instructors understand your anguish. I have come to realize that there are a small number of students who just aren't there for the right reasons and there isn't much you can do. However, I would suggest a one on one with the student. Maybe that can provide some insight if there is something going on in his/her life. If the rest of the class is engaged, I highly doubt it is your teaching style.
If that fails to work, remember that you only have control over your own actions. You can lead a horse to water, but you can't make him drink.
Best of luck.
Jan
