Engaging the DisengagedDr. Mary Amanda Graham

Program Director Seattle University

Frustrations

What challenges do you face with your disengaged students?

What the Student Thinks What’s

important? What motivates?

Definition of Motivation

Motivation-internal Action Direction Engagement

Motivation + Engagement=Learning

What Motivates You…What Engages You Why is it different for students

Why We Do Things Enjoyment Rewarding

Why Do We Do Things Less Enjoyable

Students All Students are motivated by

something All Students can be engaged

Internal vs. External Motivation What are internal motivators at your

school What are external motivators at your

school

The Problem with the Candy Bar It is never enough… Short Term Student losses interest Geared toward the “motivated” student Not a real life transferable skill in many

situations.

The Internally Motivated Engaged Self Starters Comprehend Materials Uses failure as a motivation Creative Enjoys School High Level of Academic

Achievement

Assumptions of Choice TheoryBasic NeedsQuality WorldBehavior has a Purpose

Implications of Choice Theory in School

Basic Needs:Love and Belonging FreedomFunPowerSurvival

Love and Belonging Social over school Acceptance Belonging in a group Cared about Known on a personal level Protecting self to fit in Seems Disinterested

Freedom Need for Independence Decision Making Relatedness Involvement in Own Learning Pursuit of Interests Autonomy

Fun Engagement Enjoyment Fun Excitement

Power Responsibility Leadership Achievement

SurvivalSafetyBasic Needs (food, shelter,

clothing, safe home…)Risk Taking

How Are These Basic Needs Met for Students In Your school?

Quality World What does that mean?

What does that mean in regards to School?

Group ActivityBrainstorm with

the people at your table. Can you come up with 10 ways to meet students’ basic needs, as well as their needs specific to your school

Ideas To Foster The Needs Become a part of the students quality

world Work with teachers on the value of

personal relationships Buy in from administrators on the role of

counselor In-service for teachers Assess Curriculum and Meaning School Environment

Ideas-Continued MentorshipPresencesLunchBefore Class ActivitiesA Systems Approach

Contact Info Dr. Mary Amanda Graham\

Seattle Universitygrahamm@seattleu.edu

References Glasser, W. Counseling with Choice Theory: The New Reality Therapy

Loyd, Byron D. (2005). The effects of reality therapy/choice theory principles on high school students' perception of needs satisfaction and behavioral change. International Journal of Reality Therapy, Vol 25(1), 2005, 5-9

Wubbolding, R. (2000) Reality Therapy in the 21st Century.