Education Short List

Today I worked for a banana.

I told myself that as soon as I finished writing up my deadlines I could have my banana as a snack. As sad as it sounds, it was my motivation – my reward.

No matter how much we’d like to believe that we aren’t reward motivated, we are. My favorite educational writer, Alfie Kohn , write a book on the subject – “Punished By Rewards.” In it he discusses how we, as educators, are using rewards as the motivational tool to get our students engaged. He goes on to explain how this is really corrupting our students beyond what happens in the classroom. However there’s no getting away from it. And it doesn’t matter how you wrap it up, we all have something that motivates us.

Now that you’re comfortable with that (sorry Mr. Kohn), it’s time to find out what motivates your students?! What is it that is going to keep your class, and each student, engaged? Or, in my case, what can I do to keep Jay focused during tutoring?

I have a student, a soon-to-be 4th grader who has had a hard time focusing during our tutoring sessions. I consulted a fellow teacher for ideas, some worked and others didn’t. For several months I brought in different motivational tools to help keep Jay engaged. But, it wasn’t until I brought out a snack of dried mango that I hit the jackpot.

Jay likes fruit, especially mango. I like fruit too, and carry it around while traveling to various tutoring appointments. During a long afternoon I pulled out some dried mango (from Trader Joes) and Jay let out a gasp. He wanted some of my mango. So, we bartered – he drew out 4 word problems and then got a piece of mango.

It took some time, but I was able to find out what motivated my student. Now, we can accomplish almost all of the tasks and skills I have set out for him. It’s a great feeling of accomplishment, for both of us.

Next time you are working with a student and are having a hard time reaching them, take the time to think about what motivates them. It can make all the difference.

I know that my banana tasted really great this afternoon.