How Students Learn

Knowing how students learn can help educators meet students where they are emotionally and developmentally in presenting material in class. On this page, learn how engaging students emotionally can assist in students engaging in your class and in students taking initiative for their own learning. Also, find practical applications of research based strategies to teach and motivate students.

Engaging Students: Affective Domain - Strategies and specific teaching approaches can help students engage their emotions in the learning process. Individuals react to what they are learning, coming to value and respect their education.




Metacognition - When students become aware of how they best learn they can improve their learning greatly. As teachers, you can help students become aware of how they learn through teaching practices. This resource has example activities, strategies, and information on metacognition.


Motivating Unmotivated Students - This resource includes many research based strategies shown to increase student motivation. Strategies include incorporating ideas ranging from using new teaching methods to increasing positive interactions with students. Also included is an extensive list of outside resources to help teachers motivate students.
Teaching Controversial Topics - Teaching controversial topics can be difficult for teachers if students hold pre-conceived notions or feel their beliefs are being threatened. Approaching controversial topics with care for students' emotions will help engage them at a deeper level without feeling attacked.


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