TL;DR:
- Engage students by incorporating hands-on activities and integrating technology with purpose.
- Build a supportive classroom environment to foster excitement and investment in learning.
- Focus on creating impactful educational experiences for the upcoming school year.
I go to the beach every summer to help me relax and recharge for the next school year. This year I was sitting in my chair and couldn’t help watching a man in his late 50s experiencing the ocean for the first time. He shared his excitement, laughing and sharing the experience with those around him. It made me reflect on the question I keep in mind when planning for the upcoming school year: How do we keep our students engaged, excited, and interested in the lessons we teach in our classrooms? Continue reading for three ways to keep our students engaged and excited about learning!
Creating a positive classroom environment where students feel like they can express ideas and ask questions leads to an exciting and engaged classroom. Click To TweetStrategy #1: Create Hands-on Activities
Incorporating hands-on experiential learning opportunities is one way to keep students excited and engaged. You’ve probably heard Confucian philosopher Xun Kuang’s quote on learning: “Tell me and I forget, teach me and I may remember, involve me and I learn.” This proves true even in 2024. Project-based learning allows students to explore real-world problems and challenges, making their education feel relevant and applicable. It also engages students’ minds and can foster a deeper connection to the lesson material. An article from Arduino’s website provides a list of 5 Benefits of Hands-on Education.
Strategy #2: Integrate Technology
Another effective strategy to keep students engaged and excited is to integrate technology in meaningful ways. Technology needs a purpose and shouldn’t be used as a “babysitting” tool. Our students are digital natives and providing opportunities to use technology can enhance their learning experiences. Simulations, educational games, and virtual reality (VR) can transform lessons into immersive experiences. Utilizing technology also provides a way for teachers to meet students with diverse learning styles. Are you looking for ways to utilize VR in your classroom? Check out 20 Powerful virtual reality apps for your classroom of the future by the staff at Bookwidgets.
Strategy #3: Create a Supportive Learning Environment
Finally, building relationships with students and creating a supportive classroom environment is crucial to learning. Creating a positive classroom environment where students feel like they can express ideas and ask questions leads to an exciting and engaged classroom. In their Edutopia article “How to Create a Welcoming Classroom Environment,” Cheryl Abla and Jim Bridges share ways the teacher can create and promote a safe and collaborative classroom. Encouraging collaboration and fostering a sense of belonging helps students stay invested in their educational journey.
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Final Thought
As we plan for the upcoming school year, let’s focus on creating memorable and impactful educational experiences that inspire our students to explore, discover, and thrive. How can you incorporate hands-on activities, meaningful technology, and a supportive classroom environment to create a more engaging and exciting learning experience for your students?
About Jeremy Rinkel
