Motivation challenges
I am a new instructor and I feel that motivation can be a challenge. How do you engage a class as a whole? I see half the students engaged and half are not.
Hi Sammy,
Motivation can certainly be a challenge. First, enuthusiasm starts with the instructor. You have to be excited about what you are teaching in order for the students to be excited. Try variations in teaching methods to keep students engaged. Technology and hands-on activities are always a plus. You need to also make known to students and remind them throughout the grading period how relevant the course is to their field of study in order to be successful in the workplace.
Patricia Scales
I agree. Sometimes, when my students seem to be "zoning out" I'll bring up some relevant controversial item for discussion. Hearing their classmates embroiled in heated debate tends to awaken the ones who are disengaged. Also, I find that calling on students to answer questions or respond to discussion items from time to time tends to keep them on their toes.
I find that when they feel that the assignment is relevant to them, they are a lot more interested. The lower level classes can be difficult for them to relate to, so I always try to tie it in to a real life example of what they will be working on in the future.
Hi Esther,
Relevancy is key! Students want to know and need to know that the course is beneficial to them.
Patricia Scales
