Staying engaged and involved

At Sparkling Stars School we motivate students to stay engaged and here are some tips.

1. First, get your mind right.

Much of how we perform any task starts with how we set up our mentality. Before your next class, instead of thinking, “I’m tired” or “This class is going to be so boring,” try thinking “How interesting, I get to learn something today that I’ve never heard of!” or “Today I’m going to stay alert by pretending I’m taking notes for someone who’s absent.” Come up with whatever thought helps you establish a mindset that works for you and not against you.

2. Minimize distractions.

Staying focused and avoiding distractions helps you to increase your learning abilities, the more you are focused the more you will learn.

3. Optimize your note-taking skills.

Rather than trying to write everything down, listen as if the teacher is speaking just to you and jot down the key concepts. To make note-taking even more effective, experiment with formats, abbreviations, and pen colors. Mark any parts you don’t understand so you can ask questions. Involving yourself in this active note-taking process will keep your brain on task. Moreover, according to psychologist Stanislas Dehaene, “When we write, a unique neural circuit is automatically activated” and “learning is made easier.” And the more you learn in class, the less you will have to study before an exam.

4. Be active.

Other than taking notes, find ways to be active. The most beneficial way is probably to use your voice. Asking questions, answering questions, and contributing to class discussions not only helps you better understand the material, but also helps you stay alert and feel part of the class. Even just good posture, making eye contact, and nodding to affirm you’re listening can help make class lectures feel less like a monologue and more like a dialogue between you and your teacher.

5. Talk to your teachers.

Be open to developing a relationship with even your most intimidating teachers. By interacting with them before, during, or after class, you’ll start to know them a little better. Once you feel more connected to them, you’ll likely feel more personally invested in their purpose and thus the class. This will further reduce your chances of being bored and increase your chances of getting good grades. As a bonus, if you ever need a letter of recommendation or some help, there’s a better chance your teacher will go the extra mile for you.

6. Be prepared.

When you are not understanding what has happened in class so far, it’s like coming into a conversation late: you’re confused, bored, and can’t contribute much. Consequently, staying engaged becomes a struggle and learning becomes nearly impossible. To avert such a dreadful situation, before going to class, look over the main points covered last time and ask classmates or teachers any questions you have. You’ll then be able to take interest and participate in class. Plus, less stress about being lost or falling behind will also contribute to a more fun experience. And you’ll always perform better, no matter what you’re doing, when you’re having fun.