How to Motivate Learning Disabled Students in the Classroom

The most important thing that teachers can do to motivate students with learning disabilities is to "set them up for success". They need to believe that they can successfully complete their schoolwork and be active and respected participants in the classroom. There are several ways to accomplish this.

1. Make them active contributors in the classroom.

You can begin by acknowledging the students' opinions during class discussions, by giving them praise when they answer a question correctly, and by never putting them down or making them feel inadequate through negative comments or disapproving facial expressions if they answer a question incorrectly. Instead, have the students explain why they chose a given answer and try to find a connection between their answer and the correct answer. Then, give them a hint and try and guide them to the proper response. This will help them to feel confident enough to ask for help and will encourage them to participate.

2. Tailor lessons to meet their needs.

You can also inspire your students by making the lessons as interesting and as easy to understand as possible. One way to achieve this is by previewing upcoming concepts/lessons with them so they will be familiar with the subject matter. This is important because students with disabilities often need more repetition and practice to understand new material. Also, get to know their interests/hobbies and design some of your lessons to match those interests. This is especially helpful to motivate reluctant readers. Students are much more likely to have the desire to complete assignments that incorporate their interests. Then, present the material visually, auditory, and kinesthetically (hands on) in order to accommodate all types of learners.

3. Build a rapport with them.

Students have a lot to say and want someone to listen to them. Make yourself available to just listen to their thoughts, problems, etc. and be a person they can depend on for a loving smile and an encouraging word, as well as for needed structure and high expectations.

Taking the time to do these things with your students with learning disabilities will help to make them want to do well. If students feel that their teacher expects great things from them and supports their efforts, they will usually work harder and perform better than even they thought was possible. So, set the bar high!