Teacher burnout linked to lower student motivation
Evidence suggests that the more school systems can support their teachers, the better the results for motivation and attainment. Trying to support every learner, find tools to teach remotely and continuing with the curriculum have all led to an exponential increase in teacher workload since March 2020.
Unfortunately, a rich range of evidence points to teacher burnout resulting in lower motivation in students.
So how can we motivate students in a remote or blended environment, without adding to teacher workload?
Technology-rich teaching practices can support student AND teacher wellbeing. Maintaining the teacher-student relationship by giving students choice in the technology as well as providing meaningful, fast feedback helps both teachers and students.
Giving effective and timely feedback
We all thrive on feedback. Recognition for doing something well, or reaching a specific milestone is rewarding. The same applies for students.
Research shows that students are motivated more directly by fast, immediate feedback.
Technology offers immediate feedback for students, while they’re still engaged in learning; acting as a strong motivator.
Timely and bite size feedback helps students to feel in control and successful as they learn, helping to boost motivation. Without the helping hand from technology, the demand for high quality frequent feedback adds a heavy load to already overloaded teachers. Technology allows for immediate, meaningful feedback, boosting student motivation without worsening the load for educators.