Motivator
The material I teach to students is a small course within a larger class, and so the subject matter I teach is more relevant to students while they are in school, and not necessarily after they become professionals. This has posed a challenge because students don't always see the relevancy of what I am teaching; as adult learners, they tend to be focused on what skills they can learn and how to apply them in a future job. However, I do see that my role as motivator is essential in my situation.
Jacob,
Sounds like you have worked through establishing yourself as a learning leader and coordinator of learning activities. With the diverse student group you have this is so important if you are to keep the class moving forward as needed.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
For me, as an instructor, I find it to be a challenge when teaching adults. 1. I am younger than most of my students. 2. Those that are in the same age area think that we can be "buddies".
However, when they see that I do have valuable information to give them that they will be using in their careers. They see that hard work does pay off. The younger students have a target goal to aim for, and want to see the fruits of their hard work and dedications.
I have been blessed, I have been able to accomplish a great deal in my career, before I began teaching. That success gave me the desire to share my knowledge with new comers to my industry.
Hi Nicole,
I can understand where you are coming from. I too have the same issue with some of my students and need to come up with ways to make them see how the lesson of the day can be applicable to different scenarios in their field. That tends to work with them.
-Gabriel A.
Nikki,
I like your way of "connecting the dots" for the students. There is application of content for every course or it would not be required. This sometimes is hard to get across to students since they are so career content focused. You are helping them to see that they need to expand their knowledge base beyond just their field because this expanded knowledge will help them in their careers later on.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
Nicole,
You have a very good understanding of how the content you offer contributes to the overall education of your students. Keep promoting your course in this way.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
I can understand and relate to students not always seeing the relevancy of the course material because it doesn't directly relate to a trade. However, I express to the students that the knowledged gained in my class is necessary and can be applied to any field. In addition, I have them research articles in their trade and relate them to a concept we have learned in class to demonstrate the relevancy of having general knowledge that is applicable to any field.
