I agree strongly about getting to know your students. This helps in assessing where they are as learners. If an individual student was given modifications for homework and tests then it will be important to know this. If the student was used to having specific assignments modified to meet their educational needs then the college may have to do the same in order to keep the student on tract.

It is critical for an instructor to be able to identify the learning styles to include impairments. Th training can be design to accomidate all students in a fashion that fits their education needs.

Everyone wants to be validated and know they matter. motivation gives them that extra push to continue

This to me is vital, it determines the way a learner is able to learn. Being flexible is a big part of that.

its inportant toprovide small ways for them to retain or remember diffrent things that have been taught. maybe something funny to attach to the excercise so that they remeber the one funny thing that was said to help them later.

Adult learners will often require more help and motivation, due to possible intimidation by courde requirments

I was in my early 20's when I decided to return ro school. I had mixed emotions on my first day of school, and I enjoying sharing my experiences becuase I can relate to most of my students!

Looking for ways to motivate students is always a work in progress as every class is different.

always keep it positive with the students and stay enthusiastic about what they are learning.

I think what happens in the classroom is the biggest factor in retention. If students can't find meaning in what they are being taught they will leave.

I try to learn my student's names. I was a student once and wanted to be respected so I do the same for my students. Knowing their names is respecting who they are.

I have learned listening and talking to students makes me aware of there different learning abilities from classwork to labwork.learning your student stuggles gives the instructor a positve starting point on class assignments

How do you re-focus as an instructor?

There will always be a few out of the bunch who lack motivation. What I find helps me, as well as my class, is that you can try to reach those students that are on the fence and are still able. But there is a median group who are still "choosing sides" and you can attempt to open their eyes. Once you have your teaching style down and have found what works for you the menial tasks become easier to handle. Finding out interests and hobbies can be as simple as listening to their responses, or applying what their learning to what they already know.

Some instructors are a wailing bore. After 5 degrees, I am here to bear witness. At various times I have talked to students from other schools. They will really tell you the way it is. Some individuals drone on until everyone is either falling asleep or sleeping with their eyes open. Their eyes glaze over. As I was trained to be a school principal, I am aware that evaluations and gentle feedback can be helpful. I am referring to evaluations of instructors. Their peers and supervisors need to gently help them see themselves and re-ignite their excitement. Sometimes their lack of self confidence is inhibiting release of their emotive aspects that can present enthusiasm. In house workshops can be helpful.

The best motivation and retention is positive reinforcement. Discussions about desire and how we can only make it possible with education.This will get students to think about their desire for their future.

The toughest challeng sometimes is keeping the student focused. I have found being approachable and genuine after getting them refocused helps. If the student feels comfortable with their instructor they will share problems that need to be addressed.

I use many stories in my teaching. I often tell about an event that took place in a clinical setting involving staff and patients or students and patients. I never miss the opportunity when it is relevant to the topic at hand. I also use events that hit the news recently or in the past. An example is a hospital that got sued over a medication error. Health care workers that went to jail are another favorite. Another area is examples of famous people. The latest lawsuit over a drug is another.

To not ignore the students outside problems is essential. Just listening makes for a motivated student. All of our students need to feel that their work and effort,despite one's problems,are very much noticed. The human factor is a life factor. Success in the class room will flow out side the class room because, of knowledge and human skills that are being acquired.

Give students more then they bargained for.