Motivation & Learning: Practical Teaching Strategies & Tips

This course will provide strategies and tips on ways to increase motivation and learning for classroom teachers. Teachers will examine brain-based learning and multiple intelligences to help teachers design instructional units. Hundreds of teaching tips and student activities are presented for teacher implementation. Educators will also learn about developing instructionally supportive activities and strategies to improve motivational and instructional impact in classrooms. (3 credits)

Write a brief paragraph or two about ideas, knowledge and information that you thought was significant from each chapter in the book. Perhaps statements, a paragraph or a concept that was enlightening and applicable to teaching. Bullet points of main issues are also fine.

1. Student Motivation
2. Enhancing Motivation and Commitment to Quality
3. Making Teaching Easier
4. Building Knowledge and Understanding
5. Collaborative Groups
6. Self-Reflection and Assessment Prompts
7. Exciting Projects, Products, and Performance Ideas

1. Educators will examine how motivation works in human behavior and how to get students to be intrinsically motivated. The video "The Secret" the Law of Attraction is also viewed.
2. Teachers will review student relationships and how to make learning easier without lowering standards. They will learn how to use various teaching tips and strategies..
3. Students will read about various quick-tips for increasing motivation and learning. They will examine and apply the various ideas for possible applications into their teaching environment.
4. Educators will examine the motivation tips as they relate to instructional content and teaching.
5. Teachers will learn about assessments, testing, and grading tips as they check for validity

Watch DVD's prior to reading book and ideally a second time after reading.

1. View the video:  The Secret: The Law of Attraction.  Write a video review/reflection.
2. View the video:  Quantum Science: What the Bleep Do We Know?  Write a review/reflection.

Write a two or three-page final application paper regarding your experience and understanding of the book Motivation and Learning: Practical Teaching and Learning Strategies. The essay should be in an area of interest that is relevant to your teaching and life experience. Write about your own experience and how you will apply the information in the book to your methodology or classroom. Alternative options to the final essay could be a classroom project or activity, a lesson plan or unit-plan.

Total assignments include:

1. Chapter Reviews
2. Final Application Essay (or alternative assignment)
3. Video Review/reflections