How to Answer: How do you motivate a student who is struggling?
Advice and answer examples written specifically for a Vocational Education Teacher job interview.
33. How do you motivate a student who is struggling?
How to Answer
While teachers cannot control everything that happens in their classroom, they are responsible for engaging and motivating students to succeed. Share how you might motivate a student who is hesitant or even uninterested. Consider strategies like leading with a hook, sharing personal narratives, building relationships with all students, offering extra help, pairing them with a positive peer, or catering projects/assignments to their interests.
Written by Audra Kresinske on January 15th, 2022
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer asks this question in order to see the lengths you will go to meet a student where they're at. Building relationships is crucial, first and foremost, but so is assessing various strategies to get the student involved and excited about the work. Show the interviewer that you have a few strategies up your sleeve that you rely on in order to engage all learners.
Written by Audra Kresinske on January 15th, 2022
Answer Example
"It's first necessary to ensure I have an established relationship with that specific kid. If not, I'll devote some time to chatting with them and finding a point of connection. I also rely on strategies like leading my lesson with a hook, allowing students to work in groups with friends, inviting students to my office hours, and even catering assignments to meet their interests, as long as they can demonstrate what they've learned that way. I'm very flexible because I want all students to have a positive experience in my classroom."
Written by Audra Kresinske on January 15th, 2022