motivating students
I find that when I outline the topics covered and emphasize real-world applicability it sets up the students for ongoing interest. I always remind them that they can and should ask how any topic relates to the real-world.
Yes real life applicability is important, however, gaining wisdom and understanding to deal with the unexpected emergencies is also important. This is true empowerment and the ability to control, more importantly, to avoid issues in life that have devastating setbacks is what true wisdom is about. This I find is the most motivating factor for students to learn.
Hi Sandra,
Life happens, and as long as we live it will continue to happen. Students must learn to take it all in stride.
Patricia
I am teaching at a career college where life's constant happenings gives the student too many excuses to blow off their studies. The students are not motivated and are frustrated. They are overwhelmed with the accelerated career college experience. What advice can you give to help encourage them to achieve their career goals.
Reviewing all three of the responses - I offer the following as a pathway to motivation and critical thinking and practical course application to real life:
1. I make up packets ( outlines if you will ) for each chapter covered in the syllabus and the text, anywhere from 25 - 100 questions per chapter, depending on length. I make up the questions in various formats - T&F, Multi-Guess, Fill- In and include research questions. Additionally I ask why they answered the question the way the did. Another words I have them justify the answer, not just because the book provides it, but the rationale behind the answer. Obviously there are other authors and other opinions on the subject(s). Even if they disagree with the author or text and the answer is well reasoned and supported credit is given. Looking for critical thinking and analysis.
2. I insert questions in the packets from current events in the local news that have relevance to the textual material and have students provide a brief few sentences as to analysis of how the news fits the relevance of the course. I also relate this material to the current job market and occupations to which the material may apply.
3. I use rubrics which in effect outline specific areas of a research with each having a certain point value. Must be typed.
We use all of the above for disucssion in class, and the packets are turned in and graded and returned.
The test material is taken from the packet information, so in effect the student, has engaged in reading the text, answered the questions, provided their reasoning for the answer, and researched given assignments. Then discussed the material in class with the other students and with the instructor. Dialogue is opened from a common ground.
We have student centered learning with the WIIFM approach. They can see how the course relates to real life, and how they can apply the material to everyday living.
A lot of work for the instructor in the beginning, but it the course is used again with the same text work is considerably less.
Larry Bignall, Cleveland, Ohio.
I tell students all the time you will have setbacks in life and that's okay ,but it's how you handle your issues that makes the difference.
You should let your students know that nothing comes easy. You must apply yourself in order to gain the riches of this world.
Hi Jasmine,
Life is going to constantly happen as long as you live. You have to stay focused and keep your eyes on the prize so that life will get better. This is the talk you need to give to your students.
Patricia
I have also seen that bold lettering also helps students get motovated and study easier.
I agree, I always have an empathetic ear, and let them know I will work with them towards their class goals and success.
Hi Tom
Students need an ear from time to time. Some of our students simply need to vent to someone. Most of our students go through a lot.
Patricia
Very insightful thread! I too have found that students do not trust their own internal empowerment of 'questioning the unclear' to avoid issues such as not understanding the assignment to begin with and therefore waiting until approached by the teacher as to how well they are progressing with the project to admit they are 'lost.' They must learn to ask to be understood in all aspects of life to excel.
the first writing my students do, is to write down why they came to this school, what makes them come here, and what they hope to do when they have graduated. we shair these with the class, and help each other to finish the course.
Jeannette, you have a great point on questioning the unclear. I have found that students can sometimes be afraid to ask for clarity, especially being adults. I tell my students on the first day that all homework, quizzes, exams are NOT accepted late, and just like in the job they want, turning in something late can get you fired - an F- or at least effect your christmas bonus. Most students laugh at that, but it gives that good perspective. I have also started to ask my students before they leave class, "does anyone have any questions about the homework due? If you don't ask now, then you have no excuse to not turn it in complete and on time." Now I get more questions, or at least students lingering after class to ask. I thank them at that point, tell them it was a great question, and bring it up in the next class, leaving their name out of course. It helps to encourage more questions next time.
Hi Joseph,
What a great way to encourage students to ask for clarity. I like how you put the responsibility back on the student as well as making late work applicable to the real world.
Patricia
From time to time most students seem to lose track of how their current performance/behavior will influence outcomes later in their education and careers. I like to remind them with a little lecture when they appear to be losing that intrinsic motivation.
I also agree, just listening often is what they are in need of. Letting them know that they not only are in school bettering their own life with a new career but their childrens lives.
Hi Lori,
I preach this sermon! Getting an adult education is going to be beneficial to the student as well as their family. I tell them the sacrifice is definitely worth it.
Patricia
