Keeping that seasonal depression bug away and staying motivated this winter can be tough for any student, but not impossible. Throughout the winter months, teachers serve as guiding lights, fueling student motivation despite the seasonal hurdles. As snow blankets the ground and daylight diminishes, educators tap into their creativity and compassion to keep their students inspired. Google defines motivation as “the process whereby goal‐directed activities are initiated and sustained.” Due to Mrs. Slotter, Mrs. Yenser, and Mr. Rozycki’s first-hand experience dealing with motivation, they have different definitions for it.
Ms. Slotter:
Q: How would you define motivation?
A: “To me, motivation is the thing or circumstance that causes us to respond in a particular way (motivations can be both good and bad). But, assuming you’re looking for more positive: motivation is the push or drive to accomplish something that, ideally, will make our lives or the lives around us better, more meaningful, etc.”
Q: Have you noticed a decrease in motivation in your students this winter?
A: “Compared to earlier in the year, yes, but that’s normal. By this point in the year, it’s hard for students (& some adults) to see the light at the end of the tunnel. We feel like we’re in this dark pit with little to look forward to, and the excitement of the start of the school year has long passed, making it harder to motivate and encourage success.”
Q: How do you keep your students motivated for the winter workload?
A: “For my classes, I find the second half of the year content to be far more enjoyable and interesting for students, so, I naturally find them actually increasing their interest and motivation as we get to those topics. I think it’s also important for myself and other teachers to remember that our class is just one out of many that students take in a day, and it likely isn’t the most important part of their day (nor should it be!). I tell my students all the time that my class isn’t the most important part of their life and I don’t expect it to be. But if you come in with the right attitude and general acceptance to do your best, it will go a long way towards your motivation and enthusiasm across the board.”
Q: A piece of advice for students to stay motivated
A: “It’s hard to see the long-term results of our actions now, but trying to keep a focus on that is critical. The year will only get harder for you if you drop off. So trying to see the positive results of efforts is really important. But also, take time for yourself! I find that when I do things for me (go for a walk, take a ballet class, play with my kids, sleep in, etc.) it goes a long way to changing my outlook and refocusing me on my school work prep, grading, etc.”
Q: How would you define motivation?
A: Doing something even though you might not see pure joy right away.
Q: Have you noticed a decrease in motivation in your students this winter?
A: YES (not just students TBH)
Q: How do you keep your students motivated for the winter workload?
A: I try to incorporate humor into my lessons/classes
Q: A piece of advice for students to stay motivated
A: Make a checklist/to-do list for any of the things that you are doing- it feels great to mark things off as you accomplish them!! Plan to do something that makes you happy- maybe one thing a month that you look forward to!!
This article previously ran in the February print edition.
