When students come to class without completing assigned readings, discussions lose depth, activities become less effective, and instructors are left wondering how to encourage better preparation. While it can be tempting to dismiss this as a lack of motivation, research suggests the issue is far more complex. Time constraints, unclear expectations, grading practices, and students’ competing priorities all influence whether they engage with course readings.
In this 20-Minute Mentor, Dr. Liz Norell shares research-informed strategies to help students see the value of reading and arrive better prepared for class. You’ll learn how to communicate the purpose behind assigned texts, select and scaffold challenging readings, model effective reading habits, and integrate reading into the classroom experience in meaningful ways. Rather than relying on high-stakes quizzes or grades, this program provides practical techniques for creating a learning environment where students are motivated to read, participate, and contribute.
