Strategies+to+Foster+Achievement

//"A successful individual typically sets his next goal somewhat but not too much above his last achievement. In this way he steadily raises his level of aspiration." Kurt Lewin// 

To combat underachievement, the problem must be attacked on three fronts: **//Emotional//** -- Counseling interventions help them decide goals and help reverse any habits that are blocking the road to success. However, some researchers believe the debate is still out on whether counseling interventions are truly successful. **//Familial//** -- correct praise at home (avoid too much emphasis on success rather than **constructive failure**)  **//Academic//** – well scaffolded engagements that capture interest ( show them and "antelope")  let the student participate in their own curriculum plan

Keep in mind: These students are often not extrinsically motivated, desire to achieve must come from within.

Strategies to reverse underachievement among gifted students: 1. Supportive Strategies: Family vs. Factory…students are involved in their own curriculum choices…class meetings… allowing students to bypass assignments they have mastered 2. Intrinsic strategies: encourage attempts -- not just successes -- this is key due to the internal locus of control problem. Allow students an opportunity to evaluate their own work before they receive a final grade from the teacher This is a SAFTY NET --no trapeze artists -- **Encourage Constructive Failure**. 3. Remedial strategies: With remedial strategies, students are given chances to excel in their areas of strength and interest while opportunities are provided in specific areas of learning deficiencies. This remediation is done in a "safe environment in which mistakes are considered a part of the learning process for everyone, including the teacher.

The key to eventual success lies in the willingness of parents and teachers to encourage students whenever their performance or attitude shifts (even slightly) in a positive direction.

Student Centered Learning: <span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive; line-height: 16pt;">Success lies in interest-based learning. Student-centered learning increases the likelihood of students being active participants in the process. Students have opportunities to focus on topics they consider personally or culturally meaningful and relevant.

<span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive; line-height: 16pt;">From Carol Bainbridge’s Article… <span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive; line-height: 16pt;">//Ways to Motivate Under Achievers//
 * 1) <span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive; line-height: 15pt;">Nurture the Child's Interests
 * 2) <span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive; line-height: 15pt;"> Expose the Child to New Ideas and Areas
 * 3) <span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive; line-height: 15pt;">Use Short-Term Goals and Rewards
 * 4) <span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive; line-height: 15pt;"> Help the Child Learn to Manage Time
 * 5) <span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive; line-height: 15pt;"> Praise the Child's Efforts (not just successes)
 * 6) <span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive; line-height: 15pt;">Help the Child Take Control
 * 7) <span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive; line-height: 15pt;"> Keep a Positive Attitude About School
 * 8) <span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive; line-height: 15pt;"> Help the Child Make Connections Between Schoolwork and Their Interests