Encourage students, keep them engaged, and make sure you are proving a welcoming environment. 

Every student has specific needs and learning styles. Its important for me, as an instructor, to understand those needs and try to tech the lesson according to their style of learning so that they can better retain the information being presented.

The more real-life relevance of assignments and activities the better

I try to make science less intimidating by encouraging students to relate it to their experiences in real life. 

Students need opportunities to share experiences and learn from each other.

The more I can relate their learning to their future career in nursing, the more they will take ownership of their learning and feel engaged.

Motivating students comes from demonstrating expertise, empathy, enthusiasm, and clarity in the classroom. When students see that the instructor understands the material and can clearly explain how it applies in the real world, they become more engaged and confident in what they are learning.

It is important for instructors to keep their focus on the students and their engagement throughout the course. Students tend to lose attention quickly, so using different teaching methods like discussions, stories, and activities can help keep them interested. Building rapport and encouraging participation helps students feel more comfortable and involved in the learning process.

One thing I learned about student retention is that building relationships with students makes a big difference in their success. Simple things like greeting students, learning their names, and recognizing their progress help them feel respected and supported. Adult learners also stay more engaged when they can actively participate and see how the material connects to their goals. 

After reviewing the material on understanding student characteristics, I learned how important it is to recognize that every student comes into the classroom with different experiences, learning styles, and levels of confidence. Some students may be hands-on learners, while others learn better through reading, discussion, or visual demonstrations. As instructors, it is important that we recognize these differences so that we can create an environment where all students have the opportunity to succeed.