Multiple means of representation, to give learners various ways of acquiring information and knowledge,
Multiple means of expression, to provide learners alternatives for demonstrating what they know,
Multiple means of engagement, to tap into learners' interests, offer appropriate challenges, and increase motivation.
The "why" of learning is associated with the Multiple means of Engagement. This is the affective network.
You want the students to be excited to learn and be engaged with what they are learning. Students are often bored during school. There is no way of stopping it because there are so many different individuals but if you motivate these students in a way that associates with them, then this may help them in the long run. Being motivated is most important for the educator.
For example, if we're testing reading comprehension, allowing a student to choose the topic of the passage to be read, based on his interest, could greatly improve his engagement. In addition, expanding the presentation of a test beyond the standard text-based format by implementing simulation environments, such as digital manipulative's the interactive labs, can have a stimulating rather than dulling effect on student engagement.
Jess, I completely agree with your statement about engaging students, "Students are often bored during school. There is no way of stopping it because there are so many different individuals but if you motivate these students in a way that associates with them, then this may help them in the long run." I feel like motivating students on a daily basis is one of our biggest jobs. We want students to be excited about what we're doing. It seems like if students aren't engaged in the activity, they won't be able to take away what we want them to take away from the activity. I also agree that choice can be a huge motivator for students!
ReplyDeleteI think student motivation is something that all teachers struggle with and can truly change from class to class. What motivates one set of students may not motivate another so I think teachers need to get to know their students and their likes and dislikes, their interests and taking this information and incorporating it into lessons and activities. In my experience, providing options for students to complete allows for students to feel they have a say, and what they feel may be more easily accomplished by tapping into their strengths or what they think they can do a better job on.
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