Motivating Students

Week 3 – Cont’d

Motivating Students

It was interesting to read about the different types of motivation theories and models.  Since my one-shots are usually based on the information needs for a specific assignment, I assume that the lesson has an intrinsic value for my students: If they learn the steps of the research process I’m teaching, they will be more successful in completing their assignment.  I’ve been counting primarily on the Relevance aspect of the ARCS model to be enough.   So, how can I use the ARCS model to provide motivation for this class? 

Attention:  We typically give students a survey as they come into class asking them to complete the sentence “When I do research, I struggle with…”  What I like to do is then scan the answers so I can reassure students those are topics we will cover or make sure I can address their concerns in some way during class.  While it’s not a flashy idea, I’d like to think that it helps them buy into being there.   In addition, for this class, I can “set the scene” by talking about how if they continue their interest in Sociology, they might become research assistants and need to know these skills.

Confidence: Our Center for Teaching Excellence recently held a panel discussion with some student peer tutors as the panelists.  They reported on frustrations and concerns the students they work with express.  One of the interesting items was that students want to be given a road map/agenda for their classes so they will know what the most important ideas are that day.  Since then I’ve added a slide with those main points as a visual introduction to the class.  This seems to fit in with the learning requirements aspect of this component of the ACRS model.  My lesson plan also provides success opportunities by giving them a chance to think about and assess the information in the articles they find. 

Satisfaction: Given the nature of the class, I will mostly be able to provide extrinsic rewards by providing individual feedback during the class.  Of course I will also be evaluating the worksheets they complete, but we don’t usually have any contact with students after the class.  I could ask students to include their email addresses if they would like more feedback.