Since 2001A�CADH has been educating students for a profession in the field of dentalA�hygiene-a long time. Analysis after analysis has led to some interesting observations with respect to determinants of student success and the wordA�”motivation” has become a “common denominator”A�in CADH vocabulary.A�A� Motivation can be defined as a a�?force or influence that causes someone to do somethinga�? or a�?the condition of being eager or acta�? (Merriam-Webster Dictionary, nd). In my experience as an educator, I have realized that a studenta��s motivation to succeed is often more important than the grades they received before entering into their educational experience.
As an educator we can use the advice provided by Jones (2014) to keep our students motivated:
1.A� Remove ambiguity in our instruction by providing clear, consistent directions and guidance and respondA�A�A�A�A�A�A� correctly.
2.A� Keep the lines of communication open by providing timely and clear answers to a studenta��s questions, avoid answering a question with another question because it can de-motivate, invite follow-up questions, and ensure the answers clarify the issues.
3.A� Ensure feedback and grading is consistent because conflicting comments and inconsistent grading leads to confusion and frustration and students may stop trying to improve.
4.A� Ensure student clearly understand the expectations by posting what is expected of the student that relate to policies, participation, etc. but also what the student can expect of the instructor.
5.A� Be available because an engaged, personable, approachable, and accessible instructor is a motivation in of itself.
6.A� Remember:
