Motivate Students to Learn

 

If you were to reflect on what motivates you to accomplish your day-to-day tasks, the answer would probably vary depending on the day, the task, and your mood or energy level. The same thing is true when trying to define what motivates learners. Even though learner motivation varies widely from person to person, and moment to moment, there are a few key techniques that are proven to motivate students to learn.

1. Foster Intrinsic Motivation

Ideally, we would like for every student to feel an internal motivation to learn, stemming from their interest and skill in the subject matter. Intrinsic motivation is a powerful force to keep students engaged in both synchronous and asynchronous learning experiences. As an educator, you can foster intrinsic student motivation in a few concrete ways. 

• Offer students a choice of topic, group, or assignment type to help them feel autonomous.

• Create small group learning experiences where students feel their work is valued.

2. Acknowledge Extrinsic Motivation

In addition to students bringing intrinsic motivation, most learning environments also provide external factors that create additional motivation. Student grades and career outcomes are examples of extrinsic elements that can directly impact learning outcomes. When providing extrinsic motivation, keep these ideas in mind.

• Provide clear grading timelines and criteria that are motivating rather than confusing for learners.

• Connect in-class experiences to real-world skills that will lead to career success.

3. Teach with Expertise and Enthusiasm

Your interest and skill in your course content can be infectious for learners. Research shows that when educators display both expertise and enthusiasm, students are often inspired in their own educational pursuits. Neither factor is as powerful on its own, so make a plan for both with a couple of easy steps.

• Use real-world examples. If possible, include stories from your own career experience.

• Build genuine relationships with students and express encouragement as their skills improve.