Motivated Students
Hi there. In this post, I want to focus on the educational topic of seeing ambition in students. My motivation for this topic is based on looking back on some of the ambitious classmates I have met and the current math students I work with.
Educators such as tutors, teachers, coaches and teaching assistants work with a variety of students. Each student has their own personality, their own way of learning and more importantly their own level of motivation and ambition when it comes to education. This post looks at highly motivated students and seeing the ambition in them.
Motivation Factors
Each student has their own way of being motivated in school. There are some who enjoy learning and find learning fun, some have the desire to succeed, some can visualize the rewards in their future and some are motivated to do well in school due to fear of punishment (unfortunately). Regardless of the factor, these type of students do work hard and should be respected.
There are cases where the students need external motivation factors to drive them to learn and do work. Educators who are good planners, good communicators, good listeners, good advisors and care for the students can help the students perform at a higher level. It also helps to make the learning material fun, exciting and/or interesting for the students.
Signs Of Highly Motivated Students
This list is not a universal list. More stuff can be added. Knowledge of body language is useful.
- The student is not distracted very often.
- He/She does not talk much and is focused on the task at hand.
- A lot of questions are being asked.
- They do not appear to be bored, sad or sleepy.
- There is a healthy interaction between the student and educator(s).
- The student shows up.
- Giving up is not an option. Effort is important.
The Overworking Issue
Working hard is important but there are cases where you could work a bit too hard to the point of exhaustion or burnout. It is difficult to tell students to limit their work habits (especially when they are "in the zone"). One tactful way would be to emphasize the importance of sleep and rest. Just like how muscles need rest, the mind needs rest as well. (Don't rest too much!)
Learning From Motivated Students
There is a lot of focus on the students being the ones who learn new subjects and materials. Educators can learn a few things or so from the students. Highly motivated students can set an example for other classmates and educators. These students would act as positive influences in the sense of "If I can do it, so can you.".
Educators can learn a little bit of the motivated students' Work habits and attitudes. What drives the student to learn and do well? On top of the drive, what do they do in terms of habits which allows them to do well?
I like your writing...nice to read.
I love teaching children, but I got many unmotivated students in my school..almost all of them..
Thank you. I try to make my posts organized and easy on the eyes.
Are the students not motivated by the subject you are teaching? Is your teaching approach interactive?
Some ideas to try/consider:
They lived in bad environment, most of them got problem at their home. Some caused by drug. I taught them in many interesting ways, playing games, outdoor class, etc. But, just a small change.
This situation does sound difficult. I think what you are doing is okay. It may take a lot of time as new habits take time to develop to the point that it is second-nature (natural).
Thanks for ideas sir,.I 'd love to apply it.
You are welcome. Take care.