Clap It Out

Infection in schools is not the best topic to discuss however, it is important. We must acknowledge that not all infections make one sick but are still contagious nonetheless. What is the most infectious thing in a classroom you may ask? The first answer that comes to your mind would probably be the common cold or the flu. Most teachers understand that the viruses that are shared around are certainly highly contagious however, that is not the answer. Some of you may have even thought of a yawn as your first guess. Again, though yawns are highly transmittable, they are not the answer. 

The most contagious, infectious, and spreadable thing in an educational setting is enthusiasm. It will cross the barriers of any personal protective equipment, it can permeate glass partitions, and even be spread through a distance learning video lesson. Enthusiasm breeds an excitement to learn. Though it is not scientifically measurable or quantifiable, it can be observed. We see it when a subject or discussion is interesting and a question is posed to students. Hands immediately shoot up in response. Excitement.

Excitement breeds a desire to learn and in turn, builds more enthusiasm to learn more. This eagerness to learn can build upon itself. This feeling is found within all students or every person, for that matter. The desire to learn is not found only in one subgroup. It is found within everyone, everywhere. Once the lightbulb is illuminated, the fervor to learn is intrinsic. The individual has the desire for knowledge and it will continue until it is extinguished. Most of the time that happens for some extrinsic reason. As an educator, it is vital to understand and identify when the student is excited about learning and help to fan that flame. 

For educators, this is not a great revelation. Student enthusiasm can breed a desire to learn however, the greatest challenge is how to start. Enthusiasm can begin with simply being overtly excited about the subject. I sometimes use a tool that I borrowed from watching countless high school sports. I get my team to clap-it-out. When I start clapping, even though I am the only one performing, smiles begin to happen. I am explicit in my action, loud, and even a bit crazy in my delivery and it works. It is only one of a thousand ways to ignite enthusiasm and enthusiasm is infectious. 

Until next time....