How can I be interested in class? 

Every teacher has heard this question over and over. 

Students often ask this question, and it came up again recently on Quora.

At first glance, it might not seem like a serious question; however, people do struggle to get or maintain their interest levels sometimes. 

Here are a few tips to help.

Prepare

Yes, it makes a difference!  If you are ready for the class, you are far more likely to be engaged when you get there.  You will have some idea of what the teacher is saying when he or she begins the lecture.

Read ahead whenever possible.

Watch a related video

Listen to a podcast

Read a related blog

Answer some of the questions in the text or the questions that you generated while reading using the SQ3R (or equivalent) reading method.

 Ask questions

You asked, and possibly answered, questions above, but be prepared to ask questions in class, too. 

Some of these questions might not need to be asked aloud.  You could simply be listening for answers to questions you have written down for yourself. 

Yes, please write!

Listen for the answers during the lecture.  Not only will you discover more answers, but you will have a reason to stay awake and alert.  You are actively doing something!

Of course, not all of your questions will be answered on every occasion, and you might generate more questions during the lecture.  Asking the teacher is often best.  He or she not only knows the lesson but also how it is to be formatted.

Make a Commitment

You need to commit.  In other words, you can be your own best motivator and disciplinarian. 

Write down your goals.

What do you want to achieve in this course?

Note: This can be a grade, but it can also be academic achievements beyond the grade.  What do you want to learn? What do you want to learn longer term?

Don’t kid yourself into thinking that “this” course doesn’t matter.  It does!

If you don’t make a commitment, ask questions, actively seek answers, and prepare, you won’t likely be engaged or actively involved in the learning process.

Learning Process

Remember that learning is a process.  You are not a milk container.  If you simply show up and expect to be filled with knowledge by the teacher, you will be disappointed.

If you read the text and take notes without thinking, you will be disappointed.

You must be the driver!  After all, it is your brain.

Sometimes a student will say, “This class is boring.”  To which my response is usually, “Then stop being boring!”

I am partially joking, but the truth is that it is up to you to make your learning work.

Granted, it does help when the course and teacher are interesting – but you can find a way to make that happen if you dedicate yourself to the task.

Hey, if you have read this far, you are on the right track.

Want to learn more?  Check out my other blogs, YouTube channel, or get in touch for personalized lessons.

In the meantime, keep learning, and keep having fun!

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