How Teachers Can Motivate Their Students

Mark Anthony M. Macalino

Most teachers will agree that students who are self-motivated and naturally interested in learning are easier to teach. So how can teachers motivate those who need a little nudge?

Here are some tips on how to motivate students and encourage them to learn: Prepare for your class.

Do not go to class unprepared. As much as possible, you must have an itinerary for your class so that you have time to attend to every student as you discuss the lessons. Know them by name.

Knowing and calling students by name is a helpful strategy to motivate students. Through this, students will feel included.

Set a U-shaped seating in your classroom.

U-shaped seating encourages more interaction among students.

Know the strengths and weaknesses of your students.

By knowing this, you can help them in strengthening their weaknesses and honing their strengths.

Let them know your objectives.

Your students must know your objectives for every session. It will let them know what they are expected to do, know, and learn.

Use various teaching strategies.

You can try different methods of teaching like demonstrations, lectures, case studies, discussions, and groupings.

Teach relevant topics.

Make sure that you can relate the topics you are teaching to practical things that students can relate to.

Move around the room.

Moving around the classroom while teaching can make students more aware. It can also help with their attention unlike when you are always in the same spot.

Be aware of your speech.

If you can, try to use an exciting tone, volume, pitch, and rate of speaking.

Smile.

Do not forget to smile. People are normally more at ease with people who smile. Let them share.

Let your students voice out their comments and ideas. Through this, you’ll be able to identify what they do not understand.

Use examples.

The more examples you give, the easier and theories.

Share the limelight.

Give them the chance to speak in front of the class and express their ideas and opinions.

The power of eye contact.

Move across the room and keep your eye contact with students. Nod your head to let them know that you are listening.

Constructive criticisms.

Return homework and exams as soon as possible and include constructive advice. Be available.

Let the students speak with you before, during breaks, and after class. Consistency is key.

Be consistent in the way you treat your students.

it is for students to understand new ideas

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The author is Teacher I at Sta.Maria High School - Macabebe