Motivation and the High School Student

Motivation and the High School Student

        What are some motivating factors for high school students? What are some of the best ways to motivate high school students? What are some de-motivating factors for high school students?

        “Motivation can affect how students approach school in general, how they relate to teachers, how much support they seek when they are struggling, how they perform on tests, and many other aspects of education. If students are not motivated, it is difficult, if not impossible, to improve their academic achievement, no matter how good the teacher, curriculum or school is. Moreover, unmotivated students can disengage other students from academics, which can affect the environment of an entire classroom or school.”

        There are many factors that can motivate or demotivate high school students. In Mary Sherry’s essay, “In Praise of the “F” Word,” she suggests that failure can be used as a motivator for students that show a lack of interest in their education and success beyond high school. “Flunking as a regular policy has just as much merit today as it did two generations ago.” (Sherry, Mary, (2001), p.439). Student athletes are often unable to participate if they fail any of their classes. Coaches can be great motivators because they usually are mentors for the students that they coach.