How would you help a student stay motivated?

Question

Motivation is a key factor in achieving success, especially in a rigorous field like nursing. As your tutor, I am committed to helping you stay engaged and inspired throughout your learning journey.

Answer 1

As a public health nurse I use a technique called motivational interviewing. To sum it up, MI is the use of open-ended questions to find out what motivates a person to get something done. I like to find out the student's reason for choosing nursing as a profession (you can modify this to your subject area). Then I incorporate that into my conversations with them, especially if we are working 1:1, for example in tutoring or office hours.

The reason why MI works is because I can motivate the student with what actually motivates them, instead of what I think their motivations are. Their motivation could be family or monetary or whatever, but I'll never know unless I ask.

Additionally, I think it is important to be approachable, so that the student is not afraid to ask questions and they can be themselves. Oftentimes students feel discouraged because they don't feel a connection with their professor or are even fearful of them.

Answer 2

Here’s how I can support your motivation:

Together, we will establish clear, achievable academic goals that align with your aspirations. Breaking larger tasks into smaller milestones creates a sense of accomplishment and progress, keeping you motivated to work toward each goal.

I believe in celebrating both big and small successes. Whether it’s mastering a challenging concept or performing well on an exam, acknowledging these achievements helps reinforce your efforts and boosts your confidence.

By tailoring our sessions to focus on your interests within nursing, I can make learning more engaging. When students see the relevance of what they’re studying, they are more likely to stay motivated and invested.

I emphasize the importance of practical, real-world applications of nursing concepts. Understanding how theoretical knowledge translates into patient care can ignite your passion for the field and remind you why you chose this path.

I encourage open dialogue about any challenges or frustrations you may face. By addressing these issues together, we can develop strategies to overcome obstacles, refocusing your motivation on finding solutions rather than dwelling on difficulties.

Constructive feedback helps you see your progress and areas for improvement. I make it a point to provide timely and positive feedback, highlighting your strengths while guiding you on how to improve further.

My goal is to foster a welcoming and encouraging atmosphere where you feel comfortable asking questions and expressing concerns. A supportive relationship can greatly enhance your motivation and willingness to learn.

I promote the idea that challenges are opportunities for growth rather than roadblocks. By cultivating a growth mindset, you’ll be more resilient during tough times, viewing setbacks as part of the learning process.

To keep things fresh and interesting, I aim to incorporate a variety of teaching methods—such as discussions, case studies, simulations, and multimedia resources. This diversity can help maintain your interest and enthusiasm.