Motivate Students to Learn by Any Means
By Michael Wimmer
EDI 550/551 Psychology of Adolescent Students
School of Education
Long Island University, C. W. Post
May 29, 2009
After watching the movie October Sky, I realized how important the concept of motivation was. Although I knew this was an integral part of education, seeing a movie like this really brought it home for me. Especially considering that it is based on a true story, one cannot help but feel as if they have the opportunity to make a difference after seeing something like this.
In this movie, we are introduced to Homer, a boy who desperately wants to build a rocket. However, the person who one would hope would be his greatest influence, his father, wants nothing to do with his dreams. Instead, he wants Homer to take a job at the coal mine and follow in his footsteps. Now, while it is arguable as to whether this is what his father wants for Homer or for his own best interest, there is no argument that he does not positively motivate Homer. Instead, he must look elsewhere for positive reinforcement.
This is where the role of a teacher comes into play for me. Miss Reilly lets Homer know that anything is possible. She pushes him towards what seems like an impossible goal, winning a college scholarship. It is amazing that her interest in his dreams could inspire him like she did. Without her, it is doubtful that Homer would have been able to reach his potential. His life is a lesson for teachers or anyone else that has the opportunity to mentor a young mind. All it takes is a little push and a little interest. This really made me realize that the road I am taking towards becoming an educator could potentially be an extremely worthwhile one.
Long Island University, C. W. Post
May 29, 2009
After watching the movie October Sky, I realized how important the concept of motivation was. Although I knew this was an integral part of education, seeing a movie like this really brought it home for me. Especially considering that it is based on a true story, one cannot help but feel as if they have the opportunity to make a difference after seeing something like this.
In this movie, we are introduced to Homer, a boy who desperately wants to build a rocket. However, the person who one would hope would be his greatest influence, his father, wants nothing to do with his dreams. Instead, he wants Homer to take a job at the coal mine and follow in his footsteps. Now, while it is arguable as to whether this is what his father wants for Homer or for his own best interest, there is no argument that he does not positively motivate Homer. Instead, he must look elsewhere for positive reinforcement.
This is where the role of a teacher comes into play for me. Miss Reilly lets Homer know that anything is possible. She pushes him towards what seems like an impossible goal, winning a college scholarship. It is amazing that her interest in his dreams could inspire him like she did. Without her, it is doubtful that Homer would have been able to reach his potential. His life is a lesson for teachers or anyone else that has the opportunity to mentor a young mind. All it takes is a little push and a little interest. This really made me realize that the road I am taking towards becoming an educator could potentially be an extremely worthwhile one.
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