Hi Abigail, There are many factors that enter into getting a student to appreciate the learning opportunities that are being presented. When I encounter a student such as the one you describe I talk with student individually to try and get a "read" on him/her. I ask the student "What he/she is seeking?" "What can I do to help them with their learning?" "Is there a special part of the course they want to focus on?" These questions are intended to try and get the student to "buy in" into the course and what I am trying to teach. I also look for ways to help the student see application and relevancy. This generally works but as you well know there are some students that you just can't reach. With them I keep trying hard and let the ownership of not learning or not being engaged fall on them. Gary