I find that relating memorable examples from my own experience in the field helps to reinforce course content as well as give the learners concrete examples of what they can expect in the "real world".
I use a lot or real world examples in my classes as well. Sometimes I use them if I see that the class is getting frustrated with a particular hands on activity. I will give an example of how the approach could be different in the working environment and still get the same result. I usually follow with "you have to learn to walk before you can run" and sometimes that can be frustrating but you have to keep trying. Once you get the basic concept down, you can use shortcuts later to make the job easier.
Sometimes if I see the class getting overwhelmed with the content of a lecture, I will interject with a funny patient story that I experienced while I was in the field. This tends to get the students talking and relaxed. It also shows them how the lecture can relate to patient care.
When teaching courses such as Medical Terminology I like to use words that the students have heard before and relate it back to the term. I also use a lot of hand gestures to help the students remember the words. For instance I always remember -itis as inflammation because I cup my hand up and move my fingers slightly and it reminds me of flames which helps me remember and my students remember what -itis is.
If it's the instructor using memorable examples, it may show the student that the instructor is human and has struggeled or had difficult life experiences. It can also be a spring board to connect with classmates and develop a caring team. It also shows relevancy of the topic in "real day life".
I feel they help the student to make identifications with more than just the basic material and further their understanding.
Students and humans in general understand better with the right illustrations and/or analogies. Using examples from the students' own experiences improve learning and enhance retention. These memorable examples may also serve as cues for memory retrieval later when students need that information to answer exam questions or to perform a task at work.
It stands out in the students mind, either brings back similar memories or gives them something to relate to.
Beause it will be easy for the student to remember.
Sharon,
yes the real life examples are one of the best ways to assist students in cementing the concepts.
Dr. Ryan Meers
I think using real life examples makes what they are learning real. They can relate and it creates an emotion. That is when they remember the concept and have a relatable story to help them retain it.
My most memorial examples are ones from "real life" experiences where there are conflicts and unexpected resolutions
Connie,
yes, I've said it often that those example provide pegs upon which the students can hang the concepts from the course.
Dr. Ryan Meers
Connie,
yes, I've said it often that those example provide pegs upon which the students can hang the concepts from the course.
Dr. Ryan Meers
I think memorable examples are extremely valuable in helping students remember, because it gives them a reference and " mental picture". Many times, life events hold many lessons, each student will take away a little different picture and make it work for them. I like to hear students re-tell a story I have told them and listen to what part was most memorable for them.
Cheryl,
yes, those real life examples are a great way to attach the theories & concepts to real life.
Dr. Ryan Meers
Students can then relate and retrieve the course content/teaching point when it has been anchored to a personal experience. I try to provide a generic example that most of the students can relate to and then I ask a student for a personal example.
In the dental hygiene field, dental charting is a very important factor. It is unfortunately one that the students try to rush through. I have a guest speaker, a dentist, who gives a vivid presentation over forensics and the importance of proper charting. He uses images that will stick with the students and remind them of how important their jobs are and how important it is to do their jobs well.
Because all people are better at relating to "real life" memories because your emotions are tied into them. Whether a good or bad memory the feelings that are associated to them will always reinforce the visual and intelectual thoughts.
I think using real life examples makes what they are learning real. They can relate and it creates an emotion. That is when they remember the concept.
This is especially tru when students are entering a new career field. It is difficult to imagine field settings withour examples.
