How to Be Encouraging in the Classroom

Encourage your students to do their best work.

Each of your students likely has her own learning style and classroom preferences, which presents a challenge for even the most attentive instructor. As a teacher, you must learn to encourage your students to do their best work and to pay attention even when schoolwork seems uninteresting or dull. In addition to educational encouragement, as a role model, you also have the opportunity to encourage your students emotionally since many may not receive this special encouragement at home.

Things You'll Need

• Poster board

Instructions

1. Affirm your students each time they do something well. Do not save praise or encouragement for special achievements only. Instead, offer positive affirmation each time a student successfully turns in a paper on time, does well on an exam or answers a question correctly in class. Constant affirmation reminds your students that they can succeed even when they may feel overwhelmed.

2. Clearly explain your goals and expectations for each class. Some students find it easier to be motivated when they understand exactly what their teacher expects. Remind your students to ask for clarification if you ask them to do something they do not understand, or if they are not sure of a specific project requirement. Write down classroom rules on a poster board or on a hand-out for students to take home, and give each student a copy of any special assignments so students can review these requirements and expectations at their convenience.

3. Greet each student by name as much as possible. Ask your students how they are doing, if they feel okay about the homework and if they are having a good week. Show your students that you truly care about them and are concerned not only about their performance in class, but also about their personal well-being.

4. Make classwork as interesting and active as possible. Employ a variety of teaching techniques so each student can participate and be involved. For example, instead of simply lecturing about a time period in history, ask your students to dress up or role play in class. Speaking in fake accents during a class period or watching a short film clip can liven up the learning experience.

References

• Teach-Ease: How Do I Encourage My Students to Stay on Task While Using the Computer?
• University of Hawai'i: Motivating Students