Hi Jennifer,
You are doing some very good things to keep the students engaged. If you can bring specific examples, problems, case studies from their different fields this generally helps them to see the value of your course. I teach two such courses so I know the challenges you are talking about. I have found that when they see application and relevancy to their own field they really perk up. I do it in a small group format of generally 3-5 students.
Gary
