How to Motivate Teachers for Training

Find positive ways to motivate teachers to attend training seminars.

Many teachers log long hours at school and then come home to spend more time grading, planning and calling parents. When the time comes for taking courses, it is understandable that an exhausted teacher may not be motivated to actively pursue more training, even if their license requires it. A good administrator will help their teachers by finding positive ways to encourage them to attend courses and workshops, activities that ultimately help them become better teachers.

Instructions

1. Allow the teacher to select which training course she wants to attend. If they select courses in areas that interest them, rather than mandatory seminars, they will likely enjoy themselves more and not feel resentful.

2. Recognize the teacher for putting in the extra effort by attending the training both publicly and privately. Examples of praise will create a positive environment and motivate other teachers to seek similar praise. Dedicate part of your meetings to celebrating the teachers who have successfully completed a course.

3. Approve any requests for additional training that are reasonable. If teachers feel like any or all requests will be rejected, they will likely cease looking for enrichment training.

4. Set aside a professional development day where the teacher can share his experiences at the training with the staff.

5. Arrange study groups where teachers read a book or research a current topic together. The interest generated in these groups may speak further motivation for training and also builds comradeship among staff members.

References

• Education World: 25 Ways to Motivate Teachers
• Oregon School Board Association: Motivating Teachers to Improve Instruction