Relivance
Sharing with the students my own personal experiences out in the field and how I was as a student, will help give them reality to what they are learning here in school. Constantly reminding them that the material and skills that they learn here will be important and used on the job will keep them focused and helps them understand the importance of what they are doing in class.
I do this all the time, but I often wonder about a student thinking I am egotistical because all I do is talk about my life experience. I think it is really key to make sure you ask them about their life experiences and how it relates to the material.
Through your expertice and experience to explain and make things interesting and understandable, motivating students becomes easier.
Jenny,
This is the human factor in teaching and it is an essential part of the educational process. They see you more in the role model position when you share with them your career and life experiences.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
