In looking at a wide range of research on learner cognition, intrinsic and extrinsic motivation, as well as popular stories and games, I saw a lot of common elements and themes. After realizing there was a lot of overlap between different mediums, between academic and non-academic uses, and for leisure or for learning, I grouped these elements into the top eight most commonly occurring strategies. These Top 8 Strategies for Student Engagement can be found in some of the most engaging books, games, courses, elearning modules, assignments, or discussions. What’s more is that many of the strategies are fairly simple to design into your course, curriculum, or elearning project to purposefully build engaging learning experiences for students! Read more...
Regardless if you are in academia or the private sector, you likely have experienced a disengaging professional development session. Now think back to your favorite class in elementary, middle, high school or college…not lunch or recess! That class’s instructor probably used different engagement strategies to pique your interest and maintain that interest. Imagine if your trainer had the opportunity to integrate effective engagement strategies into the curriculum before you were forced to sit through that training. Read more...
There are many components at work when teachers design instruction that engages students in learning. According to Shumow and Schmidt (2014) one of the most important aspects to engage students is the idea of challenge. Shumow and Schmidt define challenge as “anything that requires an investment of effort, whether it is cognitive, physical, or emotional” (p. 112). Challenging students as part of the learning process is a significant way to engage students in the content being taught. Read more...