One of the most difficult traits of being a teacher
is learning how to understand and motivate your students to learn. If there is one thing we know all about children, it’s
that they have a very short attention span. That being said, if kids are not
motivated well enough and made to believe that leaning is fun and enjoyable,
even the best teacher, lessons, books, and activities in the world won't
get them excited about learning.
Students who are not motivated will not learn efficiently.
They won’t retain information and they won’t be willing to participate in class
activities and discussions. Motivation, both intrinsic and extrinsic, is a key
factor in the success of students. Be it preschool, primary/high school or
college – teachers can play a crucial role in providing encouragement and
motivation to their students. Every child is different. A child may lack
enthusiasm for a variety of reasons. Either they have no interest in the
particular subject or they don’t find the teaching methods engaging or they may
be distracted by various other external factors.
Everyone struggles to be motivated at some point.
When you see your students in that place, try some of these fun ways to engage
and enliven your class. Even some of the most experienced teachers sometimes
lack the skills to keep get all their kids on track, so whether you're a new
teacher or an experienced one, try using these methods to motivate your
students and encourage them better. Here are few ways you can get the excited
about learning.
Praise
Students Whenever You Can:
Good job, excellent, great work, looks amazing –
kids always love to hear positive words especially from their teacher. To them,
the teacher is a know-it-all person and when he/she utters a word of praise, it
encourages them and makes them feel like they have accomplished something
great. It is an exciting feeling to be appreciated. So recognize some good work
in your class and appreciate them loud and clear. Occasionally, organize awards
in your classroom and see the difference it has on kids.
Spread
Enthusiasm Like a Bug:
Be well prepared for your class. Do not just talk to
your student through the class. Show your enthusiasm in the subject and use
appropriate activities and materials to support your teaching. Adding fun
activities can help students who struggle to stay engaged and make the
classroom a much friendlier place for all students. The simple act of
explaining what they’re learning out loud will help them understand and
remember it better.
Create
Leadership Classroom Jobs:
Students love to hold a leadership position or a
special task they are in-charge of, in class. They like to feel they are the
chosen one. Have classroom jobs like class monitor; update the daily calendar,
cleaning the boards, group activity leader and a lot more to encourage them to
reach for it. Use a specific criterion of your choosing, and communicate it to
them. This motivates them to work harder in order to grab the classroom job. Also
give them the opportunity to pick the job of their choice for a week.
Engage
students and encourage participation:
It is important to remember every students name in
class. Make sure you interact with them by calling out to them. While citing
examples, use names from among students as this helps in seeking the attention
of the entire class. Maintain eye contact with your students regularly. It
helps them feel like they are acknowledged for being around. Rather than
restricting yourself to the front of the class, move around quite frequently
and ask questions to inspire students to come forth with ideas and
feedback.
What are some of the ways that you motivate your students?
Share it with us in the comments section below!
Written
by Fathima Khaja
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