THE best of teachers find it hard to motivate some of their students. Numerous studies in motivation have looked closely at why and how some learners do well in school and others seem to give up without trying. Fear of bad grades, fear of failing and disappointing teachers or parents all play a role.

Excellence in academics cannot be achieved without motivation. The latter is largely a choice that leads to effort, and most students make the choice to stay motivated if they have the confidence that their goals are achievable.

Teachers often talk about ‘making’ students learn, which implies applying coercion. Students don’t need to be ‘made’ to do anything if the underlying motivational needs are addressed. Once they are motivated to study, they only need encouragement and support. The teacher’s role as a facilitator is paramount in ensuring that students develop a level of interest and curiosity that enables them to chase targets, to absorb the content, practise and reinforce concepts that must be studied.

Most facilitators set high expectations and show students how to get there — successful teachers unlock potential by making content accessible and easy enough to grasp. They give opportunities to students to respond to........

© Dawn