Inspiring young minds, one connection at a time

"Teachers can know their content backwards and forwards. They might have put hours into their lesson plans. But if their students aren't motivated, learning won't happen," (Tatter, 2019)

Basic Needs to Develop Motivation

Competence:

Student needs to know that they can be successful when they are working on different tasks. 

Autonomy:

Students need to feel that they are in control or have some control of their educational careers. This includes activities and choices. 

Relatedness:

Students need to feel like they belong. This includes being cared for and having connections.

When Needs Are Not Met
  • Anxiety and Disengagement
  • Frustration and Self-Doubt
  • Avoidance Behavior
  • Feeling Alienated and Isolated
  • Emotional Withdrawal

What About Sociocultural Factors

  • Cultural Identity Differences
  • Relationships With Classmates and Teacher
  • Stereotypes

What About Cognitive Factors

  • Student's Self Belief
  • Goals
  • Learning Styles

How to Overcome These Factors
  • Monitor behavior and meet with them about concerning behavior. Speak with school counselor if necessary.
  • Be familiar with student backgrounds and design activates that will capture the student's interest.
  • Use positive language and be up lifting.
  • Promote team work to help build relationships.

Attributes

Positive Attributes

Patience

Clear Communication

Passion for Teaching

Negative Attributes

Poor Communication

Inflexibility

Negativity

How to Improve Motivation

  • Relationships- "First and foremost, it is critical to develop relationships with your students," (Millacci, 2022)
  • Include Parents- This would impact the both the classroom and home.
  • Relevance- Students need to understand why they need to learn material.

References

Millacci, Tiffany Sauber. 2022. How to Motivate Students: 12 Classroom Tips & Examples. Positive Psychology.com. https://positivepsychology.com/how-to-motivate-students/

Tatter, Grace. 2019. Unlocking the Science of Motivation; New Sights Into How Motivation Works, Why It Can log, and What We Can do to Help Students Develop It. https://www.gse.harvard.edu/ideas/usable-knowledge/19/03/unlocking-science-motivation

 

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