motivation is essential for students to thrive
I have done instructors who lack passion& this exercise has brought this forward. I truly believe that passion is felt not taught & only a teacher can create this in the classroom . This is our opportunity to inspire, we have a moment everyday where we can tie the "why" into what we do. I can see differences in teachers who are animated & those who do this for a job & show up.
Michelle Callaghan
Michelle,
I have had such instructors in my past as well. Their lack of passion for their field made for some very long lecture sessions. We need to bring passion for our content and enthusiasm for teaching to the classroom/lab every time we we teach.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I totally agree that motivation is essential for students to thrive. Passion is felt and students can tell if an instructor is passionate about what they are doing and trying to convey. Thinking outside of the box and incorporating things other than lectures. homework and exams are ways to keep students and yourself as an instructor motivated. Field trips and guest speakers are excellent ways to help motivate students and enhance the learning environment
Students can see when teachers enjoy what they are teaching. When a teacher enjoys their subject, the students are more willing to learn and participate. Some students have the attitude that, "if the teacher doesn't care why should I?" You can avoid this situation by enjoying what you teach.
I have found that using my own personal successes and failures as a dentist have really motivated my students to continue their pursuit of knowledge. You can't believe the look on the students faces when I relate a case that didn't go the direction I wanted it to and how I rethought the problem and arrived at a solution.
Michael,
You make a great point about the value of sharing experiences and stories from the "real world". Your stories reinforce the value of the content being shared as well as help students to see the ROI on their study efforts. The examples you share that did not go as you had planned really catch their attention because they are eager to learn how you worked through the situation. Keep sharing your stories and holding their attention.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I feel an instructor must first be motivated him or herself , before they can try to get students motivated. Motivation and exctement about a class being taught is so important....students will look forward to attending class!!!
Judy,
So true. If we aren't convinced and dedicated to the value of our course content then for sure our students won't be either. As an educator I am excited about helping the next generation prepare to enter my field and be successful. This is my biggest reward and motivator.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I agree you have to let them see and yor passion when teaching . it keeps them intrested and engaged in lecture i also use personal experiences from the field good and bad and what i did to overcome the bad items.
