Blog #81 – MOTIVATING STUDENTS TO WORK DILIGENTLY
Whether it was in the classroom, during online tutoring or on my mathematics team, I worked to make sure that my students worked diligently. I encouraged each student that I came in contact with to strive to do the best that they could. I also encouraged them to do things that they enjoyed.
In the classroom, I modeled how to solve problems. I worked each problem methodically. As often as I could, I illustrated ways in which problems could be checked for errors. Each day I told them to maximize the work that they did during the time that they had. My students understood that success was achievable if they put forth maximum effort. Students were asked to determine how much time and effort would be required to excel. They were encouraged to strive to develop good study habits. By making lessons relevant, I provided an enjoyable learning experience.
When tutoring online, I did all of the same things that I did when I was teaching in the classroom. I also had an opportunity to determine each student’s strengths and weaknesses. I developed tutoring documents on which I kept track of what concepts were being taught and mastered. Individualized homework and assessments were developed to reinforce concepts taught. I provided immediate feedback on their performances. Their parents were provided regular updates on their children’s performances. Most online lessons included questions that were intended for me to determine mastery of concepts taught. Parents kept me updated on the work that their children were doing. I stressed to the students and their parents that doing homework and assessments were the keys to their success in the courses they were studying.
Everything that I did in the classroom and during online tutoring was integrated during lessons that I taught members of my mathematics teams. Besides this, they were taught to self-analyze. They learned how to develop a plan for success. They mastered ways to prepare to perform under stressful situations. Team members were kept updated on team goals and individual goals. Each learned how to study results at tournaments to make personal adjustments to their practice and study habits, and these would translate into improved performances. These students were also taught the importance of psychology in competitive situations. Each worked at maximizing their abilities.