Finding the Comfort Zone!

Trainers will often encounter unmotivated students. Unfortunately, this can lead to classroom management issues ranging from nodding off in class to more overt disruptions like making phone calls and talking to others during the trainer’s presentation. Since motivation is not intrinsic for every student, trainers can be challenged to find ways to motivate them.

The key is in creating a safe and supportive environment. I think it is important to realise that students need to find their comfort zone - that set of boundaries where an individual feels safe. This zone is different for each student and can be affected by a variety of conditions. For example, in some situations there are unreasonable expectations placed on participants by their employers about the speed of competency acquisition. In other circumstances, the institution’s environment or culture can make students feel threatened. Additionally, some students may just be uncomfortable due to a past negative experience in education.

In order to engage, students need to know they are not threatened. For some students this can be achieved by greeting them by name or identifying that calling on them directly might cause anxiety. Others might need reassurance that it is okay to talk to the trainer after the session, should they require extra help.

Being able to provide participants with some time in their comfort zone during training can make classroom management easier. When they do not feel threatened, they are less likely to act inappropriately when challenged and are more likely to be interested in the class.

Remember, risk is where learning happens. Students need to take risks in order to learn, but they are disinclined to take these risks when they feel threatened.