As parents and educators, you want the best for the children in your lives. While it isn’t always easy to get students excited about their studies, there are several strategies that can be used to increase their engagement.
As one of the most important aspects of students’ long-term success, academic performance depends greatly on each students’ level of enthusiasm.
Here are seven strategies that parents and teachers can use to make learning fun and enjoyable for kids.
1. Make Education Interactive. One of the best ways to get students engaged in their academics is by making it interactive. This can be achieved by taking a hands-on approach to learning. For example, in science classes, conduct experiments that students can participate in.
In math classes, have students work together to solve problems. By directly involving students in their learning, you create a fun learning environment and help children retain lessons more effectively.
2. Use Technology to Your Advantage. These days, children are very tech-savvy and can figure out just about anything. Teachers and parents can use this to their advantage by incorporating technology into the learning process. Here are just some ideas for creative ways to engage students in new ways.
- Gamified learning activities
- Digital field trips
- Harness social media
- Create digital content
- Shared online classroom calendar
- Review and analyze web pages
- Incorporate video and multimedia into lessons and presentations
- Bonus online activities for students who finish work early
3. Create a Positive Learning Environment. A positive environment can significantly stimulate learning. To create a space that is conducive to learning, reduce distractions, and create an inviting space where kids can feel at ease.
Things to consider are comfortable furniture, lighting, decor, and sound. It is also a great practice to encourage positive behaviors and attitudes by offering regular praise and feedback as well as regularly celebrating successes, no matter how small.
4. Use Creative Teaching Methods. By switching up teaching methods and providing students with variety, you will keep them interested and engaged. For example, if you normally lecture to students, you can supplement with videos, songs, games, and other creative methods to reinforce lessons.
There are also various tools and resources that can break up the monotony of instruction and offer students a more enriching learning experience. If you are working on phonics, for example, you can turn for help with elkonin boxes as a fun and innovative tool.
5. Allow For Student Input. Children feel empowered when they are allowed to participate and make decisions. Try to incorporate student input in the learning process. Ask for feedback on what they enjoy most about learning methods and activities. Giving students a voice in their education can lead them to be more invested in their academics.
6. Use Real-Life Examples. When students can relate to their learning, their interest and engagement immediately increases. For example, when studying history, you can discuss current events to demonstrate the connection between the past and present.
During math lessons, you may choose to explore concepts and examples that relate to money, including the costs of various items (let students choose!), accruing interest, and more. By using relatable examples, you make learning more practical and useful for all students.
7. Put Your Student In The Driver’s Seat As Much As Possible. The more students can take charge of their learning, the more invested they will be. Once you have provided the necessary front-loading and instruction, allow students to become problem solvers and facilitators of their learning. Encourage students to be proactive in their academic choices, as well as involved in reflection and self-assessment. Provide guidance and support as needed, but show them that you trust their ability to be strong, independent learners.
While it may seem like an impossible task to get your kids to engage in their academics, there are a number of fun and easy ways for parents and teachers to turn this around. In addition to the above strategies, it is also helpful to remember to build lessons around students’ interests when possible, teach to their unique learning styles, and remember to show your own enthusiasm- it’s contagious!