Teacher Toms Blog

MAY 30, 2025

It seemed like each time I spoke with him he was enthusiastic about some new hobby or other -- outer space, collecting knives, electric trains, bicycles, playing guitar -- all self-motivated. They are so committed to carrots and sticks that they simply can conceive of a child who is motivated from within.

Motivation 102

Motivation Assignments Testing Writing 102

eSchool News

JUNE 27, 2025

A study published in Frontiers in Psychology concluded that game-based learning has a moderate to large effect on students’ cognitive, social, emotional, motivational, and engagement outcomes–especially in early education. Even when it fails, the surprise is motivating–it’s a mystery to solve. That fuels teamwork.

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Game-Based Learning Skills Teaching Gamification 275

k12 Digest

MAY 19, 2025

Practical Strategies for Classroom Application The research consistently tells us that the application of brain-based learning principles leads to increased academic achievement, better behavior, development of appropriate social-emotional skills, and increased motivation. Lets examine a few examples from the research. link] Rahmatin, L.

Science 246

Science Education Motivation Lecturing 246

eSchool News

JULY 3, 2025

Digital tools are instrumental in supporting instructional practice and promoting discussions, Pizzo and Svrcek noted: Discussion allows students to construct ideas, develop new knowledge and collaborative work, and is a tool for student motivation Discussion is integral because it helps students be successful Learning communities need to consciously (..)

Students 306

Students Discussions Evaluation Lecturing 306

Catlin Tucker

FEBRUARY 21, 2021

Could approaching the design, instruction, and facilitation of learning (in class, online, or a combination of the two) with a “would you rather” lens improve student motivation and engagement? Choice has been shown to improve retention, transfer performance, and motivation (Schneider, Nebel, Beege & Rey, 2018).

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Laboratory Motivation Fairness Participation 543

eSchool News

JULY 1, 2025

The Equation for Math Success: Engagement, Motivation, and Confidence : When students struggle with math, intervention should spark curiosity, wonder, and confidence. As AI technologies become increasingly prevalent, it is crucial to understand how to use these tools responsibly.

Ethics 273

Ethics Game-Based Learning Feedback Math 273

Catlin Tucker

SEPTEMBER 13, 2021

First, I do not think grades are an effective long-term strategy for motivating most students. In his book Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us , Daniel Pink points out that extrinsic rewards–points, grades, or the promise of a class party for good behavior–are not effective ways to motivate people over time.

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Teachers Motivation Assignments Students 544

eSchool News

MAY 2, 2025

If we pair students strengths and aptitudes with in-demand careers through personalized learning, we are ensuring the success of our students and tomorrows workforce, thus realigning motivation and fulfilling the individuals Hierarchy of Needs.

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Learning Motivation Achievement Knowledge 263

eSchool News

JULY 7, 2025

Showing them real-world applications keeps them engaged and motivated.” One teacher captured the essence of this approach, stating, “Students want to see how what they’re learning connects to their future.

Online Learning 271

Online Learning Teachers Blended Learning Learning 271

eSchool News

JUNE 20, 2025

Prodigy : For students who struggle to stay motivated during math practice, Prodigy turns learning into a role-playing adventure game. ReadWorks is especially helpful for English Language Learners, offering audio versions and question supports to aid comprehension.

Math 278

Math Quizzes Critical Thinking History 278

eSchool News

MAY 26, 2025

Consistent support, combined with motivating strategies and evidence-based reading instruction, helps students develop both competence and confidence. Educators should: Implement structured, evidence-based reading instruction and monitor progress regularly (Connor et al.,

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Disabilities Learning Disabilities Reading Motivation 269

eSchool News

JUNE 9, 2025

This workshop offers a comprehensive framework to address chronic absenteeism through a lens of equity and inclusion, ensuring every student is seen, valued, and motivated to attend school regularly.

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Art Math STEM Participation 299

eSchool News

JUNE 26, 2025

That’s what’s motivating. “I Teachers understand students in a way that AI may never duplicate, and human interaction can be uniquely motivating. By combining cognitive and learning science, research, practical instruction, and the power of AI, we can motivate and show students that every math learner is a mathematician.

Math 180

Math Metacognitive Skills Motivation Knowledge 180

eSchool News

MAY 19, 2025

While communication challenges can arise for physical education teachers, technology like mobile instructional audio systems can increase communication, boosting motivation, performance, and overall classroom connection for all students. It also supports in class management and delivering clearer instruction.

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Physical Education Education Communication Motivation 237

k12 Digest

JUNE 30, 2025

and “What motivates you to learn?” Restorative social circles are structured, facilitated group conversations designed to build community, promote accountability, and repair harm. Prompts such as “What do you want your school to feel like?” What determines your success?” gave students a voice in shaping their educational experience.

Culture 246

Culture Schools Fairness Feedback 246

eSchool News

JUNE 18, 2025

Thinking back on what worked, what didn’t, and what motivated students can help educators equip themselves not only to repeat successes, but to evolve. How did the teacher respond to challenges–whether student behavior, shifting expectations, or personal stress?

Schools 240

Schools Motivation Science Teaching 240

Catlin Tucker

MARCH 8, 2021

Teachers are frustrated by what they perceive as a lack of focus, engagement, and motivation. Teachers frustrated by a perceived lack of focus, engagement, or motivation should develop routines and resources designed to help students develop these critical self-regulation skills. ” I hear statements like this every week.

Blended Learning 543

Blended Learning Metacognitive Skills Learning Motivation 543

eSchool News

JUNE 20, 2025

However, the RAND study notes that routine boredom is associated with lower school performance, reduced motivation, reduced effort, and increased rates of dropping out of school. Feeling bored in math class from time to time is not an unusual experience, and feeling “math anxiety” is common.

Elementary School 272

Elementary School Elementary School Study Math 272

Catlin Tucker

DECEMBER 9, 2021

However, to truly understand teacher engagement we must understand the dimensions of this motivational construct. Teacher engagement is a multidimensional motivational construct that reflects a teachers’ choice to dedicate energy resources to their work. What is teacher engagement?

Blended Learning 533

Blended Learning Teachers Coaching Learning 533

Catlin Tucker

MARCH 28, 2023

Challenge #3: Student Apathy and Lack of Motivation Student apathy and lack of motivation are significant barriers to engaging students in deeper learning. Unfortunately, many students are disengaged and lack the motivation to take on this challenge. However, this approach can be counterproductive.

Blended Learning 460

Blended Learning Universal Design Learning Motivation 460

k12 Digest

JUNE 30, 2025

and “What motivates you to learn?” Restorative social circles are structured, facilitated group conversations designed to build community, promote accountability, and repair harm. Prompts such as “What do you want your school to feel like?” What determines your success?” gave students a voice in shaping their educational experience.

Culture 233

Culture Schools Fairness Feedback 233

Catlin Tucker

MAY 3, 2021

UDL provides a foundation that reminds us that the goal of school is to teach students how to become motivated, resourceful, innovative learners, and help them prepare for the lives they want to live. To meet the needs of diverse learners in flexible landscapes, educators need more than a single framework.

Universal Design 545

Universal Design Blended Learning Learning Motivation 545

Edsurge

MAY 12, 2025

Solving this motivation problem is tricky. Indeed, good teachers are really the factor that motivates students and imparts the value of math, says Julie Grove, vice president of product management for core curriculum at HMH, one of the largest textbook publishers in the country.

Math 181

Math Motivation High School High School 181

Edsurge

MAY 21, 2025

Student Achievement About two-thirds of teachers agreed that their students were motivated to get good grades and on track to succeed in school. Less than half said they were satisfied with their level of pay and opportunities for advancement. Most also said their students are excited about what theyre learning.

Teachers 202

Teachers Fairness Achievement STEM 202

eSchool News

JUNE 25, 2025

Here are some additional tips for success from Attendance Works, a nonprofit that partners with schools, districts, and states to reduce chronic absences: Consider awards for shorter periods of time so that children and families can feel successful sooner Reward “behavior,” not people Include students or families when choosing possible recognition so (..)

Elementary School 227

Elementary School Elementary School Failure Communication 227

k12 Digest

MAY 19, 2025

Practical Strategies for Classroom Application The research consistently tells us that the application of brain-based learning principles leads to increased academic achievement, better behavior, development of appropriate social-emotional skills, and increased motivation. Lets examine a few examples from the research. link] Rahmatin, L.

Science 130

Science Education Motivation Lecturing 130

eSchool News

JANUARY 6, 2025

In a TEDx talk titled The Super Mario Effect–Tricking Your Brain into Learning More , Mark Rober highlighted how video games like Super Mario can motivate people to achieve their goals by viewing failures as learning opportunities. Theyre encouraged to embrace mistakes, stay motivated, and deepen their understanding of the material.

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Failure Motivation Gamification Cognitive Development 328

eSchool News

MAY 21, 2025

Data breaches can cost students, parents, and teachers thousands of dollars (or more); cripple entire school districts digital infrastructure, and, in the case of a politically motivated attacker, even target public officials.

Schools 234

Schools Textbooks Internet Motivation 234

Catlin Tucker

DECEMBER 12, 2023

1 Hard to Motivate After a Long Day at School After spending six to seven hours in a structured, often high-pressure academic environment, students face the additional burden of homework. As a result, writing assignments often fail to meet the psychological needs of autonomy, competence, and relatedness required for motivation.

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Assignments Writing Feedback Motivation 457

eSchool News

JULY 10, 2025

. “Unlike other platforms, Gimkit allows students to earn virtual currency for every correct answer, which they can use to purchase power-ups, adding a competitive edge that keeps students motivated.”

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Multiple Choice Questions Game-Based Learning Students Fairness 204

eSchool News

JULY 1, 2025

No matter the subject, teachers are always looking for ways to engage and motivate their students. Starting with intuitive tool-less systems, then snapping together robots and graduating to advanced metal robots, VEX Robotics can unlock a curiosity and a passion that will stay with them for a lifetime. First, robots are fun.

Science 162

Science STEM Motivation Math 162

Catlin Tucker

DECEMBER 31, 2020

7 Student agency is the best way to increase engagement and motivation. That lack of agency can have a devastating impact on student motivation. The more agency and autonomy students enjoy, the more likely they are to be motivated. I understand the frustration. 8 Projects can turn the world into our curriculum.

Learning 544

Learning Blended Learning Assignments Feedback 544

eSchool News

JUNE 23, 2025

These principles include: Crazy About Students – Dr. Thomas-EL encourages educators to show genuine passion and enthusiasm for their students, creating an environment where students feel valued and motivated. His motivational stories will have the audience cheering and saying ‘amen!’”

Culture 130

Culture Motivation Coaching Critical Thinking 130

Teach Thought

JULY 10, 2025

Since it encourages internal motivation through an outwardly-created set of circumstances, gamification sits at the awkward intersection of intrinsic and extrinsic motivation. In both cases, the specific content and the nature of the goals serve to motivate and direct behavior in classroom contexts.” Personal) your praise?

Gamification 105

Gamification Motivation Learning Learning Styles 105

eSchool News

JUNE 5, 2025

They involve rethinking how existing structures and programs can support both emotional stability and long-term motivation. These strategies dont require overhauling curricula or major budget increases.

Students 264

Students Counselling Beliefs Achievement 264

Catlin Tucker

APRIL 5, 2023

This can lead to greater engagement and motivation, as students feel a sense of belonging and connection to their peers. Arranging furniture to maximize focus and engagement creates a classroom environment that supports self-directed learning, fosters engagement and motivation, and promotes positive learning outcomes.

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Motivation Learning Outcomes Communication Coaching 481

eSchool News

JUNE 13, 2025

Without appropriate support, such as assistive technology, students may fall behind academically, which can affect their confidence and motivation to participate. These students might take longer to complete assignments or may miss visual cues from teachers, making it difficult to follow along with lessons.

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Assistive Technology Students Textbooks Reading 210