Jacob Larson

I learned that motivating students is about helping them see the purpose behind what they are learning. Students are more likely to stay engaged when they understand how the knowledge and skills they are developing will apply to their future careers. Encouragement, enthusiasm, empathy, and recognizing progress can also help build a student’s confidence.

I intend to apply this by connecting lessons and hands-on activities to real situations students may experience in the field. I also want to recognize when students are improving, even if they are still struggling in certain areas. As an instructor, I think my attitude can… >>>

Keeping the focus on the students means paying attention to how well they are actually learning, not just whether I have covered all of the material. Every student learns differently, so using a variety of teaching methods such as discussion, demonstrations, hands-on activities, and real-world examples can help keep students engaged and make the information easier to understand and retain.

I intend to apply this by paying closer attention to student participation and understanding throughout each lesson. I want students to feel comfortable asking questions or letting me know when something does not make sense. In a hands-on program, I… >>>

One thing I have learned about student retention is that keeping students engaged goes beyond simply teaching the material. Building a good relationship with students, setting clear expectations, encouraging participation, and providing positive feedback can make a big difference in whether students stay motivated throughout the program.

I intend to apply these strategies by creating a classroom environment where students feel comfortable asking questions, making mistakes, and learning from them. I also think it is important to recognize when a student may be struggling and address it early instead of waiting until they fall too far behind.

Understanding student characteristics is an important part of student retention because every student enters a program with different experiences, goals, challenges, and motivations. Taking the time to understand why a student chose the program and what they hope to accomplish can help instructors provide the right support throughout their education.

I intend to apply this by getting to know my students beyond just their academic performance. If a student begins struggling with attendance, assignments, confidence, or practical skills, understanding their individual situation can help me determine the best way to support them. Some students may need additional instruction, while others… >>>