A few years ago national surveys were taken asking students their attitude about school. The results are not surprising, but they are troubling. With the passing of each grade student attitudes declined. In other words, kindergarten students were the most positive about their school experiences, and twelfth grade students most negative. School systems across our country are concerned about these results. Though this may be the way it has always been, most school districts see it to be critical to change this trend. Below are some ways to do so.
One is to take students’ individual needs into account when planning instruction. For students who are below grade level, it means providing extra supports to close the achievement gap. On the opposite end, it means finding ways to enrich the learning experience so that high achievers stretch themselves. For students in the middle, it means having high expectations so their growth is maximized.
Another important strategy is giving young people opportunities to work in small groups or learning teams. Students are often very social individuals. Allowing them to work together in an organized learning experience enhances their enjoyment of learning. This team work also helps them prepare for the work world where the large majority of jobs entail working collaboratively.
A third strategy is providing students with opportunities to learn concepts utilizing manipulative materials. For example, in math, students are assisted in gaining an understanding of a concept by utilizing actual items to demonstrate the idea. Fractions are taught by pouring water into a graduated container, so they can actually see what one third looks like. Or they are given shapes that can be taken apart and rearranged to experience different geometric formations. All subjects can be taught by using concrete or visual representations to help young people gain a deeper understanding of the topics.
Active approaches to learning in general improve student attitudes. For example, basing science instruction on experimentation and inquiry is much more effective than basing instruction mainly on the textbook, lectures, and notes. Also utilizing field trips and workplace visits to see how learning is applied motivates students. Such active approaches are more stimulating to the brain and improve attention and retention of material.
Giving students varied ways to demonstrate their understanding also builds positive attitudes. Perhaps a student is not an effective test-taker. However, that same student will get a high grade when given a chance to demonstrate knowledge via a project or a speech. Giving such alternatives allows students to use their strengths and interests to show what they know. It leads to more success and greater ownership in the learning process. This in turn makes the educational experience much more positive.
The most important and effective strategy schools are employing to improve student attitudes is to build relationships with all students. Students who believe the school adults care about them are much happier in school. These students are willing to work harder. They also receive better grades and are willing to work through difficult material in order to meet the expectations of the caring adult.
Many other strategies are being used by schools to improve student motivation. These include giving students more responsibility for their learning progress, giving learning choices, utilizing community partners in the educational process, having older students assist younger students, providing service opportunities, and using student interests as a foundation for learning. All of these strategies take time and effort. However, they are absolutely essential if students are going to thrive and learn throughout their school careers.
Please let the Columbus Public Schools know if you have other ideas to increase student interest. It is one of the most important areas on which they can work.
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