When planning your lessons for the new school year, you probably already have a plan in mind. But how do you know you haven’t left out some creative ways to engage students?
If your students aren’t passionate about the material they’re working on, it won’t help them get ahead in their classes or with standardized testing. So, how do you make sure they’re all invested?
Well, you’re in luck. We want to help! If you want to learn proven ways to keep engaging students in learning, read on!
1. Utilizing Experiential Learning Techniques
Experiential learning allows students to personally experience a concept or skill that is being taught, as opposed to simply listening to a lecture or reading a textbook. This technique provides an opportunity for the students to be active participants in their own learning.
Proven ways to keep students engaged in learning through experiential techniques are to provide hands-on activities and incorporate real-life activities and examples, including:
- Collaborative problem-solving
- Encourage problem-based learning
- Provide relevance and application of concepts
2. Creating Active Learning Opportunities
Creating active learning opportunities is a great way to keep students engaged in learning. Active learning encourages students to be engaged in the lessons and have ownership of their learning. Activities help stimulate student involvement, such as:
- Role plays
- Discussions
- Brainstorms
- Debates
Allowing students to create their own projects gives them an opportunity to be creative and work collaboratively with their peers. By enabling students to take part in the learning process, they become stronger thinkers and more self-motivated.
3. Cultivating an Engaging Classroom Environment
Creating an engaging classroom environment is essential to keep students learning. It allows them to feel comfortable and respected while also giving them the opportunity to share their voices in a safe space.
A few effective ways to cultivate an engaging classroom environment are:
Starting Class With Icebreakers and Energizers
Icebreakers are great for starting the day off on a positive note; energizers help liven up the environment.
Allowing Dialogue and Discussion to Flow
It allows them to practice problem-solving skills, make connections between topics, and practice critical thinking. It also allows students to express their opinions, develop persuasive arguments, and build self-confidence.
Setting Guidelines and Expectations
Setting guidelines and expectations helps to understand expectations and maintain a positive atmosphere.
Providing Student Choice
Providing student choice also helps the students take ownership of their learning, as it lets them decide what to focus on and gives them autonomy. Overall, when students feel respected, valued, and motivated, they are more likely to be engaged in learning.
4. Encouraging Inquisitive Mindsets and Critical Thinking
The best way to do encouraging inquisitive mindsets and critical thinking is by collaborating with assessment experts. Through collaboration with assessment experts, schools can help reduce costs while keeping their engaged students.
For example, having experts create and implement rubrics that promote inquiry-based and critical thinking-based teaching, using open-ended questions on assignments to promote critical thinking, or utilizing creative technology-based activities that promote students’ curiosity can be beneficial.
Learn More About Engaging Students in Learning Today
Learning is an essential part of youth development; it helps students reach their full potential. By utilizing these proven ways of engaging students in learning, teachers can ensure that no student is left behind.
With the right tools and tips for teaching, all students can be successful. Try out these ideas and see the positive impact it has on your students today!
Did you find this article helpful? Visit more of our blogs!