Motivating undergraduate students

I am now two generations away from my current undergraduate students, and I find it hard to understand the pandemic/Tik Tok generation. (I also don’t use TikTok myself – the last “new” social media platform I joined was Instagram and I lament the fact that the internet is just not as fun anymore as it used to be).

So, in trying to breach the gap with my current students, I have been collecting some ideas on how to get their motivation up and running again.

Here is the list of ideas I compiled:

Microlearning: Break down complex theories into bite-sized, easily digestible content. It aligns with students’ accustomed pace of information consumption.
Interactive and gamified Learning: Introduce games and quizzes in learning activities. This method speaks to their preference for interactive and competitive environments.
Site visits: Facilitate real-world exposure to bridge theoretical knowledge with practical applications, enhancing understanding and interest.
Flipped classroom: Reverse traditional lecture and homework elements to encourage active class participation and self-directed outside study, catering to their desire for autonomy.
Peer learning: Leverage the power of group dynamics for collaborative learning experiences, fostering a sense of community and shared discovery.
Personalized learning paths: Offer choices in learning trajectories to cater to individual interests and strengths, promoting a tailored educational journey.
VR and AR: Utilize Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality for immersive learning experiences, tapping into their affinity for digital environments.
Interactive polls and Q&A sessions: Employ technology for live feedback and engagement during lectures, ensuring their voices are heard and valued through the use of technology.
Quest-based learning: Frame assignments as quests or challenges, making learning an adventure that rewards creativity and problem-solving.
Multi-step feedback procedures: Implement a structured feedback loop for continuous improvement and personal growth, aligning with their expectations for rapid development.
Inclusive perspectives: Integrate diverse viewpoints and cultures into the curriculum, preparing them for global citizenship and collaboration.
Professional skill development: Focus on building skills that are directly applicable in the workplace, bridging the gap between academia and industry expectations.
Continuous improvement: Embrace an agile approach to teaching, adapting based on feedback and evolving trends, ensuring the learning experience remains relevant and engaging.