The problem is most likely a focusing issue — not a memory issue.
An important distinction between memory and attention that I share in the focus video below.
In the video in particular, I describe how the Atkinson–Shiffrin memory model (see model below) differentiates between sensory, short-term, and long-term memory.
And the important implications this model has for one’s ability to focus and remember information long term.
You can’t do big things if you’re distracted by small things.
Competing with a machine is a downhill battle. Instead, teachers must focus on what they do best – connecting with students. Ratherthan lamenting about students being glued to their smartphone, teachers should consider whystudents do it in the first place. You can’t solve a problem if you’re not asking the right question.
Step #1 Discover the underlying cause.
There is no doubt that smartphones have changed the way we live and learn. Which is why educators (including myself) must take a step back and reframe the smartphone problem.Student distractibility existed long before smartphones. Lack of attention is the common denominator.
We doodled. They text.
We passed notes. They facebook.
Step #2 Reexamine how you teach.
We all have an idea in our mind about how we perform at work. Yet the only way we will ever have an accurate picture of our performance is to collect data on our concrete behaviours. Click on Teacher Behaviors Inventory (TBI) to obtain a PDF of this suggested assessment tool (used in my doctoral research).
Sample items from TBI inventory –
This slideshow requires JavaScript.
The TBI assessment tool will help determine how you engage students, capture their attention, and sustain curiosity with instant gratification just one click away. The TBI also includes a measure of how you spark student interest and arouse curiosity in the lessons you teach. Completing the inventory will give you a baseline of your current teaching techniques. It will help identify areas of strength and challenge (potential growth).
Step #3 Model what you expect.
The next step in student engagement is to “become” what you expect from your students. Motivate students by being motivated! For example, I write motivational quotes on the blackboard each day. The goal is to model each quote I post. And encourage students to do the same.
Grab attention by being attentive to the unique needs of each student, and responsive to the distinct personality of each class. Engage students by being engaged, passionate, and excited about the topics you teach. Enthusiasm is contagious! Stimulate curiosity by being curious about how students think.
Step #4 Show students you care.
In order to move from instant gratification to meaningful interactions in school (and in life), we must show students how much we care. We must be present and mindful in our own classrooms. And in tune with each student and teaching moment.
Student leadership conference at St. Clair College.
For students need to know how much their learning matters. How much they matter. Week after week. Class after class. Students are our reason.
I believe in the power of education. Deep down in my soul. And it’s this core belief that translates into a high level of enthusiasm and excitement for student success in my classroom.
I believe so strongly in the impact of enthusiasm on motivating students, capturing their attention, and enhancing their learning that I wrote my doctoral dissertation on the topic.
When you notice the blessings in your life (big or small), happiness happens. One conscious thought. One mindful emotion. One insightful gesture. One moment of wonder.. at a time.☀️
Life is full of highs and lows. Wins and losses. Joys and sorrows. Celebrations and defeats. Too much and too little.
Make the shift.
Nothing shifts us from scarcity to abundance more quickly than a sudden moment of appreciation and gratitude.
Multiply your treasures.
Take a moment (this moment) to look up and breathe in all that you are grateful for. Right here. Right now.
Bless what is.
Be it the fresh air that you breathe. The clean water that you drink. The sunshine over your left shoulder. Your child playing nearby. The captivating twinkle your friend’s eye.
The miracle (of this moment) was that I was so wrapped up in the busyness of my day that I did not wake up to the fact that today was #CampDay. (A big deal for Canadians.)
It wasn’t until I began searching for what I was grateful for (in this moment in time) that I woke up to the vibrant coloured balloons and bold inscription on my Timmies coffee cup.
It wasn’t until I went looking for (and expecting) miracles that I realized I was surrounded by one. 💙
Miracles are everywhere.
What do you see?
At this moment in time.
What are you grateful for? Right in front of you.
Miracles are everywhere.
They will set you free.
What miracle did you discover?
Right here. Right now.
What miracle did you find – that had been there all along?
9. Take frequent MOVEMENT breaks.
