Positive self-talk
I like to ask my students to compose a "morning mantra" they'd like to say to themselves every morning to spur themselves on to have a great day. I share mine which goes something like this: "Lookout, world! Here comes a strong intelligent woman who can do anything she puts her mind to." They have to share their own mantra with the class the next day, and every day after that I ask a student to begin class by giving us his/her positive self-talk mantra for the day.
At our campus, each class has a "class box" in their classroom. My staff and I have been putting positive or inspiring quotes in our class boxes for each of our students. Usually, we have students come back to our office after receiving their "quotes from the universe" and they thank us and tell us that it was an awesome quote that week or they say, "Thank you! How did you know I needed to hear that right now?"
It's been a good way to let our students know that we care and want to encourage them to be successful.
Bonita,
Reserved (shy) students are often a challenge. Being quiet does not mean a student is not engaged; just as being talkative does not mean a student is really paying attention. Calling on students who do not volunteer often is important. Just be sure to do so in a supportive manner. "What do you think about ....?" can ne a good way to engage a quiet student.
Jeffrey Schillinger
Talking with students before and after class gives some students a feeling that you care about them as a person.
Yes, I believe we should compliment a student for positive things we notice them do in the classroom. For example, I'm trying to encourage participation; there are a few who a very quiet and when they make a comment I need to be very positive.
Carol,
One of the most effective ways to build positive self talk is through written affirmations. Some teachers write a new affirmation on the board each week. Some do it in each class.
Jeffrey Schillinger
I always encourage students to think positive thoughts. I explain thinking negatively will only make it look like everything they are doing is incorrect. I also tell them about having patience with themselves, they are students and they are here to learn and mastering a skill will take time and practice.
Emily,
Thanks for sharing this. Another key aspect f a teacher's mindset is the believe that the students can be successful. If a teacher believes this, the teacher's behavior will clearly indicate this and will allow the students to build confidence as they succeed.
Jeffrey Schillinger
Lairlyn,
What you describe is a "similar other." Instructors who can demonstrate this have a good chance of establishing effective rapport.
Jeffrey Schillinger
Mind set will play an importnt role in how the day will go, or how your task will end up. Showing confidence and a positive attitude will help students accelerate.
It helps to inspire students if their instructors shares the fruit of their hardwork , like how the instructor made it to finish the course & passed the board.
Atiba,
Thanks for sharing this post. These are the little things that sometimes mean a lot.
Jeffrey Schillinger
Jefferey,
I ask them how was there weekend? If I notice they are stuggling in a certain area. I ask them do they want tutoring. I focus on them then when they got it and getting it right. I say good job, I knew you could get it I am proud of you, if it is a written test I put stickers on their test and leave them a little note.
Atiba,
What are one or two of the specific ways you engage students in this kind of talk?
Jeffrey Schillinger
Yes I alway ask them. I notice they are more involved if you do postive talk to them.
Students need the support system within the academic arena also. Positive self-talk is one tool that builds confidence in the student to succeed. I am always encouraging my students with positive words and I will ask them what kind gesture or action did they say or perform the day before. Has anyone used this type of technique? I am going to include the ‘mantra’, which is a great learning tool.
I always give every student positive talk. They know that you care and that you are there cheerleader
David,
These are good thigs. I have found that "catching students doing something right" is an important part of motivation.
Jeffrey Schillinger
Pointing out to students what they are good at regularly is a great form of positive self-talk. Also, sharing with them positive motivational clips from time-to-time is good.
Melissa,
It may be important to get with your peers to try to find ways of changing the fear of those courses that students have before they get there. One way might be to have the teacher of the tough subject meet with students a few weeks ahead of the start of the term to ease them into the subject. The other faculty members can help be talking about how colol the subject matter in those course will be or how great the teacher will be.
Jeffrey Schillinger
