What should instructors strive to do to maximize learning engagement?

Instructors should encourage challenging, yet achievable goals to maximize learning engagement because this approach promotes a growth mindset among learners. When students are presented with tasks that stretch their abilities but are still within reach, they are more likely to feel motivated and engaged. This balance fosters a sense of accomplishment as learners overcome these challenges, thereby enhancing their confidence and reinforcing their desire to learn more.

This strategy also invokes the principles of the Zone of Proximal Development, which emphasizes the importance of providing support on tasks that are just beyond a learner's current abilities. It encourages active participation and critical thinking, making students more invested in their learning process. When goals are appropriately challenging, students are less likely to experience boredom and more likely to develop a deeper understanding of the material, ultimately leading to a more enriching educational experience.