Topic 2 Motivation and Persistence

After listening to different perspectives in the breakout room, it appears that giving students autonomy to select options for a type of assignment to complete is an excellent motivational factor, especially if the students understand that the project has a purpose. I have consistently been doing this for many years. My main focus is to learn more about how to motivate students and help them maintain their persistence for achievement.

What did I learn that perhaps can be used in my classroom and pedagogical approach? I understand the importance of establishing small but achievable goals in terms of assignments. The focus should and can be on the journey (the learning experience, what did you learn, how has this changed your way of thinking? How can you apply what you have learned to areas of your life work, relationships, other classes, etc.?). Again, the journey can be just as rewarding as the grade. I believe that when students understand, there should also be a balance between work, school, and personal life that can help keep them motivated to continue learning.
However, while I can incorporate approaches to motivate students, what do I do when there is poor attendance? Yes, I will utilize the Connect2Success system and contact student(s) directly to find out if I can be of assistance. In addition, a significant issue I have noticed the last four semesters is students experiencing emotional and physical health issues which have played an essential role in lack of motivation and not attending class. Therefore, I will continue to incorporate any information (strategies) that I have learned to help encourage students to maintain a level of motivation during the semester.