James Jackson

Reanna, great post. Related to this is the importance of helping students better understand that no one can know it all as there are always new things to learn and apply. I always encourage instructors to share with students how current events apply to the topic being studied. What changes have occurred in your profession over the last several years and over the longer period of time. What can we takeaway from a better understanding of the past? These are all great techniques in keeping students engaged and to help them understand that learning is something they will be doing… >>>

ArRecozell, first you need to help redefine their definition of failure. If failing a quiz helps them to pass the final course exam then they pass the class but needed to know their weak spots in order to focus their study. What actions do you take to help them prepare to be successful? Some students just do not have good study habits so you could create some lessons that provide the information they need but also prepares them to be tested on the materials. Before you think to yourself if is not your role to train them to take notes… >>>

Eileen, what types of responses do you get when you talk to students about your concerns? Have you consulted with other instructors that teach similar subjects about what they do to gain student trust and attention? Before you focus on what is wrong with your students just make sure you are looking into your lesson plan first and ask a very simple question - Is my class engaging and interesting to my students? You may gain more interest in your class if you talk to students about their expectations and what makes them engaged in some classes and not in… >>>