A Bit of Extrinsic Motivation for Students
This week has been an interesting one in terms of professional growth. It has made us all wonder the use of technological devices as Power Point presentations in class, whether that is large or small. But what can be done to encourage all students to "get hooked" in their learning process?
Wondering a bit this subject-matter, I started considering the different kind of student one can find in class. On the one hand we have students who are intrinsicly motivated to learn a language, but on the other hand, we also find those ones who are "not" really interested in what one is teaching. But why?
The intrinsically motivated student finds one's class as a way to practice his/her language and continue through the process of a second language acquisition. But then we get to face those ones who need some kind of "extrinsic motivation" to continue with his/her learning. Memorable presentations by the teacher could be a way to extrinsically keep one's students' attention span longer. Listening to someone else during a whole class can be boring for many students, but having them actively parctipate in class -with the use of PPT presentations- is a way to win them over. And "wining them over" means that they are grasping lots of bits of information in class.
By adding extra elements to our PPT presentations, as teachers we can cover a great range of learning styles. Interactive slides can focus on visual learners, but at the same time, other slides in the presentation can get to logical learners, and so on. It just takes a bit of planning before one sits down in front of the computer to create the presentation.
Saturday, February 27, 2010
Dear Jonathan,
I think you have defined rightly that we have two types of learners. Some of them are intrinsic learners and some of them are extrinsic learners. Intrinsic learners don't require extra efforts as they are self motivated. But for drawing the attention of extrinsic learners, Memorable presentations by the teacher could be a way.
I agree with you that "Listening to someone else during a whole class can be boring for many students, but having them actively participate in class with the use of PPT presentations- is a way to win them over. And "wining them over" means that they are grasping lots of bits of information in class."
In the weeks' postings on conferencing, you have become forerunner. It is possible as you have mastery over language.
I am sure you are very popular facilitator.
Look forward to your next posting.
Best regards,
Mahamud
Mahamud,
thanks for your comments. I do believe that part of our efforts should be directed towards those students who are extrinsically motivated. They are the ones that need to be engaged much more in class. As you assertively pointed out, the intrinsically motivated don't need much but a gentle "push" to set them in motion.
Jonathan
Dear Jonathan,
nice way of rationalizing more reasons for interactivity. Motivation is the key word in that respect. It is interesting you relate our week's acitivities to two types of motivation, as what primarily crossed my mind was the concept of learning styles.
Activating the less motivated students is one of the mysteries of our profession, especially when they do not lack the proficiency to participate - just do not feel willing to do so.
I agree with Mahamud about your contribution to this group's discussions. They are very special, timely and inspiring. There is a lot to learn from the way you present your ideas - summing up the important points and inviting others to join in. We practically got used to it!
Best regards from Croatia,
Andreja
Andreja,
I must render to the thought that "activating the less motivated students in class is the one mystery all teachers should work on. What seems to be the answer? I just find myself helpless and trying to reach those students who just seem not to care. It's rather difficult, but it is a challenge we all have to face.
Jonathan