Education is the foundation of just about everything we know, but it's no secret that not all students are the same. Some have different motivations, different goals, different ways of learning.
The most important time to recognise these differences is when dealing with a student who is finding things difficult.
It's not uncommon for teachers to make mistakes when working with struggling students, and these errors can have a detrimental effect on their motivation, school attendance, and overall academic performance.
One of the primary mistakes teachers make with struggling students is assuming that their lack of motivation or poor attendance is due to laziness or a lack of discipline. However, research shows that students who struggle with their studies often experience low self-esteem and negative emotions such as anxiety, stress, and frustration. These emotions can lead to a lack of motivation and absenteeism from school, which further exacerbates their academic difficulties.
To address these issues, teachers need to create a safe and supportive learning environment that encourages struggling students to participate actively in their studies. One way to do this is by offering co-curricular activities that align with students' interests and passions.
For example, if a student is interested in music, a school band or choir can provide a positive outlet for their creativity and help them develop skills that can translate into academic success. Co-curricular activities not only improve students' self-esteem and motivation, but they also foster a sense of belonging and community.
Another way to support struggling students is through the use of systems such as house points competitions. These systems reward positive behavior and academic achievements, encouraging students to set goals and work towards achieving them. We love house-points systems as they create healthy competition among students, motivating them to improve their academic performance while fostering a sense of camaraderie and teamwork.
Research supports the use of such systems in schools. A study published in the Journal of Educational Psychology found that school-based incentive programs led to a significant increase in student attendance, academic performance, and pro-social behaviors such as helping others. The study also showed that students who received incentives were more likely to set goals and work towards achieving them.
Teachers need to take a holistic approach when working with struggling students. Creating a safe and supportive learning environment that encourages participation in co-curricular activities and utilizes systems such as house points competitions. By doing so, teachers can help struggling students overcome their academic difficulties and build self-esteem, motivation, and a sense of community. These changes can have a significant impact on a student's long-term academic success, mental health, and overall well-being.
HouseBytes is just one of many fantastic ways to get your students motivated within the classroom and beyond!
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