While there are many benefits to asynchronous digital learning, there are also pitfalls that faculty must be aware of. Teaching practices that work great in the physical classroom might not work as well when transitioned to a digital format, and student disengagement is often the result.

Students can often feel isolated when learning online, and may naturally reduce their participation if they feel like it's not valued. They also may come to class assuming the worst, particularly if they've had bad experiences with absentee professors in the past. And once a student is disengaged from the course, their well of motivation tends to dry up.

Should a student's performance and participation gradually decline over the length of the course, or decline sharply after the first couple of weeks, that might be a sign that they are becoming disengaged and losing motivation.

Faculty need to be keenly aware of student disengagement, and act to combat it as soon as they can. But how?

 

In order to keep your students engaged in your class, you have to keep them motivated. To do this successfully, there needs to be both intrinsic and extrinsic motivation. 

I remember when my daughter was ready to go to college and reviewing various engineering programs.  She wanted a school where she would be able to immediately experience what was done in her potential future career, during her first year. That desire was built on intrinsic motivation.

But at the same time, its just as important to pick a school where students know they can succeed. The spark of joy one gets from positive feedback on an assignment, or making full marks on an exam is just as important. Those feelings are what make up extrinsic motivation.

So, what's the difference?

Intrinsic Motivation

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Many students want to engage in intrinsic learning - learning for personal fulfillment. They thrive when the learning itself is satisfying and fun.

Okay, but how do you cultivate intrinsic motivation?

Whenever possible, allow students to be responsible and have control of their learning. Think of ways to connect your subject matter to real-life and/or to the students’ lives. Try to use interactive learning strategies, including gamification, real-life projects, or facilitating collaborative projects. Have them choose their topics for assignments, encourage self-reflection, and goal-setting assignments.

Extrinsic Motivation

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There are extrinsically motivated students that want the good grades, certificates, or recognition. Students are more engaged when they see value in the learning and see themselves doing well. 

So how do you encourage extrinsic motivation?

You must set clear, concise and course related expectations. Provide constructive, timely and useful feedback, and don't forget to provide praise when appropriate. Students feel motivated when they can see how they are improving. 

Faculty are key in motivating students, but students need to be willing to take responsibility for their learning. Letting students know at the onset of the course of why it helps achieve the students’ personal and academic goals is strategic and significant. To find your “Pot of Gold”, create a structured environment where students choose their own learning process – that is engaging and motivating not only for your class but building skills for life.