Want to and Have to
I have used this concept a bit differently than issued here. I believe that there are two motiviations in this world...want to and half to. A good example of this is in admissions. I have worked with many schools where the motivation to attend school is this very division. Generally our younger students are in a want to situation...they want to go out and experience school in an interest that they are passionate about. Or perhaps its just going to school and taking the next step in thier life. Either way they want to make this exciting change. They are not held to it. With this group, the want can change quickly. They may want to change schools next week or follow another interest.
Have tos, as I call them, are folks who may be stuck in a rut. They need more from life than what they are getting. They Have to make a change. That drive genereally creates a higher motiviation and desire to follow through and jump over hurtles. They dont see their "have to" as a negative. Rather, it is their way out.
This is just my 20 years in this industry speaking. Just a different view. A half to can be a positive experience...which I feel is what your presentation was ultimatelly about.
Lisa,
As simple as it sounds, the difference between "I have to ...." and "I get to ...." is huge. I get to cut the grass tonight becasue I own a home. I get to get up in the morning and drive downtown because I have a good job. It adds perspective.
Jeffrey Schillinger
I think the "want to" and "have to" is a great idea that I will begin to communicate to the students.
Many of them use "I have to work" as an excuse for not showing up. I think by explaining to them that if they "want to" have a better career and work in the industry in which they are being trained, they need to "want to" come to class. If they feel like they "have to" come to class, it feels like they aren't excited about their future that our training will provide.
My students certainly understand that I have a personal life as well, but I've always let them know that they are free to contact me whenever and I'll get back to them as soon as I can. So far, this policy has never been abused. :)
I work very hard to exhibit a positive attitude. I let the students know that I have been where they are before and I understand the difficulties of school and life. I discuss study techniques that may be helpful to use when coursework seems difficult. I also offer tutoring and tell them I am available to assist them in any way possible.
Cynthia,
You will make a huge difference if you can get most of your students to the "want to" attitude you describe.
Jeffrey Schillinger
I loved the want to have to list. It would be a good presentation to a class. I explain to my students it is not what in life happens to them but how they deal with those things that make them the person they are, and determines where they go in life.
Grace,
How do you best demonstrate that passion?
Jeffrey Schillinger
It is nice to still have a passion about the field I have been in for 37 years. My students tell me that this motivates them to see me love my profession so much. I think I am lucky to have chosen the right field for me!!!
we have a combination of students who are at crossroads in their lives or are starting right out of HS. It's an interesting dynamic having both groups in your cohort and watch them develop into the professionals they desire to be. Their motivationss are as unique as their DNA!
Mayda,
What are some specific things you do to demonstrate a positive attitude?
Jeffrey Schillinger
Attitude is very important in everything you do in life. You accomplish more when you have a positive attitude. You have to transmit this to the student in the way you act.
Dee,
Thanks for sharing this post. You well described the options students have and the reasons good career colleges keep their students.
Jeffrey Schillinger
In our school it seems the majority of the students I see start with a 'want to' situation. Many are working full time and going to school but have plans for their future beyond what they may accomplish here. Some are trying it out to see if they can survive in a college environment after so many years away from school. Some come here right after high school because they want the shortest road to a career.
The 'have to' concept that I 'want to' keep in my mind is that they don't 'have to' go to college here. There are the same or similar courses offered, literally, across the street. Another is less than a mile away and there are state universities close also, maybe 10 minutes away. They don't 'have to' come here with so many other choices. If we don't follow the kind of guidelines this course outlines we won't stay in business long. We try to blend fun, discipline, course materials, academic requisites for whatever their scholastic goal is with an open door (phone, text, email) policy for all instructors and staff. If someone needs us we 'want to' be there for them.
Rhonda,
It is important to recognize that one needs time away from school and students in order to remain effective.
Jeffrey Schillinger
Ilove what i do as a instructor and some the students ask me "when do you take time off"? I respond and let them know this is something i want to do. Hopefully my motivation inspires them.
