When Medical Terminology is a totally new topic.
I agree that Education Risk is huge factor in not only knowledge retention, but also class retention and satisfaction.
Many of our students are returning, changing careers and just plain new to health care. I've found that associating as much as possible with their personal experience not only increases their retention (emotional attachment to information in the midbrain), but also increases their confidence level. They're more quickly able and willing to take risks in the classroom.
I encourage them when a term reminds them of a word they've encountered as a patient or caregiver navigating the medical system, to explore it's meaning and how it's related to the term we're learning.
Elizabeth, the changing up of how the content is viewed for the learners reinforces the content in different ways.
Michele Deck
I agree. I will have them view and listen to the word, and then ask them if they are familiar with any words that sound similar. Afterwards I have them define and use it in a word from our field to add to their internal dictionary.
Hi Sarah,
I agree also. In my classroom everything is totally related to every day life and work experiences. Individuals retain information better this way.
Joseph, I'm glad you see the importance of visuals as a way to clarify and reinforce learning.
Michele Deck
I try to use a lot of visualization aids when discussing medical topics. I feel the student can always relate back to what I showed them in the class room. It helps them retain the difficult material.
Anita, true knowledge is built on previous experience and familiar concepts.
Michele Deck
I think that it helps tremendously when you can show them what they already know. This can alleviate some anxiety and give that little bit of confidence that they need to continue forward.
Erika, I agree I think associations so help memory. I'm amazed and pleased when learners offer theirs.
Michele Deck
I have many associations that I always tell my students. I also ask them to share any new ones them may have thought up. Sometimes mine are really silly and I get mixed reactions. In the end, I think it really helps!
I agree with you. I try to associate anything I can to something that they do or say everyday.
