A common challenge that teachers face in class is the reduced attention span of their students, particularly at the start of the academic year. At other times, students simply have no interest in learning, and some are lazy while others are quite disorganised.
The good thing is that there are some measures that teachers can use to motivate their learners to study and become the best.
Believe in your learners
When a teacher believes that a student is lazy, there is a high chance that the children will act as such. They will stop doing their homework or answering questions in class.
Teachers should stop having the notion that they “can’t” and start believing they “can”. Simply motivate and tell students that they can do better in their studies.
Encourage the learners
In most cases, the reason why your students appear lazy is that they are going through frustration in learning. One of the top ways to motivate students is by using positive words to encourage them. A good idea would be to motivate them that they are capable. We can also do that by giving them one-on-one assistance. If they are not doing well, they can find help through the best writing service reviews or through a psychology assignment helper.
Show them the consequences
To keep your students motivated, you need to have clear expectations. Let them understand the consequences of certain learning ethics and behaviours. No child loves punishments. When you notice that positive reinforcement is no longer working, there should be consequences for your actions. You can keep them longer at school, and report to their parents. Remember that disciplining a learner should be the last option.
Make learning fun
You do not have to regularly engage in complex activities in an attempt to make learning fun. All you need to do is to be passionate about what you are teaching and allow that light to shine. Some of the measures you may use to draw your interest include telling relevant stories, jokes, etc. If they need to write an essay, for example, you may also encourage them to seek help by reading 10 essay writing rules.
Be considerate when giving homework
A common misconception teacher has is to think that more homework amounts to more learning. You need to be considerate and only give assignments that are necessary and valuable. In case you limit the homework quantity, you may focus on quality by ensuring that they complete it. This is among the simple ways of motivating students.
Seek the parents’ input
There are parents who are simply not interested in helping their children with their studies. You may talk to such parents and advise them to assist their children. When talking to parents, always focus on the solution rather than the problem.
Ask them to encourage the child to perform better. Most children will be ready to meet their parents’ expectations.
Vary the learning environment
At times, all that is needed to motivate the learner is only a change in the environment. Take them on class trips or have a class meeting in an alternative classroom or library. You can also sit back and ask a learner to lead the lesson. Learners may show interest while listening to a peer as compared to listening to their instructor every day.
Motivation is important for teachers, too
Students can often affect the enthusiasm of their teachers – and even classmates. It is expected that teachers will have bad days (Teachers are human too!), but if you find yourself frequently bored and uninspired, your students will feel the same.
Continuous professional development can help a great deal in reinvigorating your enthusiasm as a teacher. You may also seek ways to develop your teaching strategies or you could also join organisations or social networks that can allow you to share and learn from other teachers. It is important to bear in mind that even simple actions you take to motivate yourself will help you and your students.
David Radar did his degree in psychology at the University of Hertfordshire. He is interested in mental health, wellness, and lifestyle.
