Motivation

Some say that relevance is the key to motivating students in learning. By connecting learning in the classroom to lives outside of the four walls of the school building, it is going to make learning more interesting for students. Is there an experience in your education (elementary, middle, or high school) that you can recall where the relevancy of the unit/project had an impact on your motivation? How has relevance played a role in classes you have taken and how did that level of relevance impact your motivation for learning?

Instructional Strategies

Strong (2002) states, “Teachers who successfully employ a range of strategies reach more students because they tap into more learning styles and student interests” (p. 43). Has this been your experience as a student? Give an example to either support or refute this statement.
Strong, J.H. (2002). Qualities of effective teachers. Alexandria, VA: Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development.

Motivation

Some students are naturally motivated, while others are not. What do you believe is the basis for student motivation in the classroom?

Classroom Managment

It has been said that classroom management can be the key to a successful classroom. Why do you think that could be true? Classroom management is used at all levels of instruction. What classroom management techniques have you observed in your university classes? How are these techniques similar or different from what you experienced in elementary, middle or high school? Explain.

Classroom Managment

How does the physical arrangement of the classroom impact management? How do you think adapting student assignments (for those with learning disabilities or those who need enrichment) has an impact on classroom management?

Instructional Strategies

Think back to when you were an elementary, middle or high school student. Describe the most memorable experience you had as a learner. Describe the instructional strategy the teacher used to make the experience and learning come to life for you.

Motivation

Looking back on your education, what strategies or techniques did teachers use to motivate student learning? Explain. Would those techniques be effective in classrooms today?