October 26, 2006

• Topic: The motivated student

  One of my roommates made a comment a while ago about what students learn in school.  “They learn whatever they take away.”  I liked this idea, because it puts the spotlight on the motivation and ability of the student.  As a teacher, I am just beginning to develop an understanding of students’ motivations and abilities, and am trying to use that understanding to help my students.

  Yahoo news had a lead article that begins “college degree worht $23,000 extra a year.”  I’ve come across this type of statement before, and the quotes that come it about the inherent financial benefits of getting a college degree.  My problem with articles like these is that it perpetuates the idea that simply going to college and graduating will result in financial and professional success.  This is misleading, obviously, because your salary is linked to your job and profession, and your getting that job is related to what your skills and knowledge, which is related to your motivation and ability to learn things.  So, what is ultimately imiportant in earning that extra $23,000 a year, is that you are a motivated learner who takes away what is necessary to obtain your desired job. 
  I don’t underestimate the necessity of a degree in many professions, especially those requiring a subsequent masters degree.  But individuals would likely benefit more from headlines saying, “students with purpose and motivation most likely to succeed in school and earn more,” than simply equating college with money.

  -cheers

  • 10:09 pm
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