I think that intrinsic motivation is almost important. If a child shows an interest in something that they should be encouraged to pursue it. For example if a

I think that intrinsic motivation is almost important. If a child shows an interest in something that they should be encouraged to pursue it. For example if a student in grade 8 says that they are interested in scuba diving, they should be giving the opportunity to take a 2-3 week intensive 16hr a day boot camp. A motivated kid can easily do 16hrs days. Such programs should be ready to implement the moment a kid shows interests. Strike while the metal is hot. I've seen bored kids in class, not understanding a lesson, and not caring. They're doodling away, and interested in graffiti. If I could, I'd put such a kid in a calligraphy boot-camp, 16hrs a day. Not only would they learn something that they are interested in but, all learn to learn - and be better in all subjects. In Toronto some kids that are on verge of dropping out are transferred to a special school that focuses on skate-board building, and the business around selling skate-boards. http://oasisskateboardfactory.blogspot.com/ http://oasisskateboardfactory.blogspot.com/ Its had some success.