Nate Pratt

I feel that direct communication between students and instructors touches on both intrinsic and extrinsic motivation. Communication, trust, and understanding students' goals helps support intrinsic motivation, while feedback and guidance can serve as extrinsic motivators.

I enjoy leading discussions around students' work and workflow. These conversations encourage students to take ownership of their learning, discover new approaches, and feel a sense of accomplishment and pride in their efforts. They also create opportunities for group engagement, building trust, respect, and learning from one another.

Clear instructions and open communication help build confidences and trust. I want students to enjoy what they're learning, feel challenged and have fun with it. Expressing that there will be frustrating times, but I encourage them to keep pushing, stay curious, and know that it's ok to stumble along the way. You're not alone and it's a team effort. 

passion and persistence will get them through, and know it's okay to stumble along the way! 

As an instructor, I’ve noticed that adult learners bring a different level of focus and engagement to the classroom. They value building connections with their peers and instructor, making the learning experience more enjoyable and meaningful. As a student, I always appreciated hands-on learning, and I make it a point to bring that same interactive, practical approach to my classes.