Student Disengagement- The Teacher's Challenge | Erik Svensson | TEDxYouth@SMCMBH

Summary

The script addresses the challenge of capturing and maintaining students' attention in an era of shortened attention spans, largely influenced by social media. It highlights the issue of student disengagement in classrooms and its negative impact on academic achievement and future prospects. The speaker proposes solutions, including creating more engaging classes and ensuring teachers are passionate about their subjects to inspire students. The goal is to improve grades, self-esteem, and overall enjoyment of education.

Takeaways

• 🚀 The average attention span has decreased significantly since 2000, now comparable to the 'eight-second window' of social media.
• 📉 A 2015 study indicates that 20% of Australian students are disengaged during class, a number that is on the rise.
• 📚 Engagement is crucial for academic achievement, and disengagement can lead to self-esteem issues, anxiety, and future employment complications.
• 🤔 The speaker suggests that traditional teaching methods may not be as effective in the current digital age, where students' attention is easily diverted.
• 🚫 Limiting or removing social media is not a viable solution to the problem of student engagement.
• 🎨 The solution proposed is to create more engaging classes that capture students' interest and attention.
• 👨‍🏫 Effective educators use energy, body language, humor, and passion to engage students fully in the learning process.
• 💡 The speaker emphasizes the importance of having teachers who are passionate about their subjects to inspire students.
• 🔄 The speaker suggests that teachers should not be made to teach subjects they are not interested in, as this lack of passion can affect student engagement.
• 📈 By implementing these changes, the speaker hopes to see an increase in students' grades, self-esteem, and overall enjoyment of school.
• 🌟 The speech aims to contribute ideas that may help improve the educational system and benefit future students.

Q & A

What is the average attention span decrease since the year 2000?

The average attention span has decreased by 33% since the year 2000.

How does the rise of social media impact the attention span of today's youth?

The rise of social media contributes to a culture of instant gratification, making it harder for young people to maintain focus on tasks that require extended attention.

What is the statistic regarding student disengagement in Australia?

A 2015 study by Kirsten Hancock and Stephen Zubrick indicated that 20% of all Australian students are disengaged during class.

How does disengagement affect learning outcomes?

Disengagement from the educational process can lead to lower academic achievement, decreased motivation, and increased likelihood of dropping out.