Book Description (from: www.amazon.co.uk)
"Essential Motivation in the Classroom is the definitive one-stop guide for teachers who want to know how to motivate children - and how children learn to motivate themselves. In this rollercoaster ride through the theories of teaching, learning and thinking, Ian Gilbert highlights the 'seven keys' of motivation, offering a range of strategies, ideas and insights to help learners become motivated from within. An entertaining and inspiring read, this book is full of useful, practical advice, ranging from motivational research from leading theorists to philosophical gems from Homer Simpson. Teachers in all sectors of education will find this book indispensable, helping them to change the culture of their classrooms and improve the effectiveness of their teaching."
An inspiring book indeed, which really must be read by all who are concerned with our present education system, the future of our world and our children's role in that future. Ian Gilberts book is wonderfully readable and I love that each chapter ends with a summary of what has been discussed.
My favourite part is Chapter 5: Get Personal
In other words:
Invest your time in building relationships with your students.
Smile and look like you want to be there.
Be yourself in the classroom
Link into motivation they already have.
Help them understand the effects on their life of the people they spend time with.
Watch your language - avoid teacher clichès.
Ian Gilbert's website: www.independentthinking.co.uk
"Learning is messy.(Eric Jenson) Take that onboard as a belief and, without having to throw out academic rigour and effective classroom management, you will find a great deal more flexability for teaching and a greater awareness of the many ways in which learning can take place in a classroom."
If you only ever read one book about children and/or education make sure it's this one...
