Gary Meers, Ed.D.

About me

I am an Education Advisor/Consultant for MaxKnowledge. I write courses that assist in the professional development of career college instructors. These courses range in content from the introductory level to advanced instructional development. I started my teaching career as an instructional technology teacher on the high school level, completed graduate school and then moved into higher education. I spent many years in the area of teacher training at the University of Nebraska. While at the University of Nebraska I stared working with career college instructors to improve their instructional delivery skills. As a result of these experiences I have been a consultant to career colleges throughout the United States and a number of foreign countries.

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Gary Meers, Ed.D.

Discussion Comment

Student Motivation Factors

Paul, I teach five sections of a course that students have to take in order to get their teaching certificate. To say they are excited about coming into the course would be an understatement. The fun part for me is to change their mind set and get them to see the value of what I have to offer not only just in the content area but in application to other aspects of their lives. As this transformation occurs they become more engaged and excited about coming to class and participating in course activities. It is a lot of work but… >>>

Gary Meers, Ed.D.

Discussion Comment

Effective Motivation Techniques

Paul, Adults like reinforcement and encouragement. I teach approximately 500 graduate and undergraduate students a semester at a major land grant university. I know after having done this for many years that adults are just taller children. They do like stickers as well a treat now and then for a job well done. Gary Gary Meers, Ed.D.

Gary Meers, Ed.D.

Discussion Comment

Using Reflective Thinking

Sharon, Thank you for these comments on your development as a creative thinker and problem solver. You were willing to invest the time and effort needed to become the thinker and solver which many people are not willing to do. You can be a role model to your students and show them that there are great results to be realized if they will take the time to develop the self discipline needed to be successful in these areas. Gary Gary Meers, Ed.D.

Gary Meers, Ed.D.

Discussion Comment

Student Motivation Factors

Gail, Immediate use of newly acquired knowledge is a powerful motivator. I am excited for you as you take this information and make application of it with your faculty. I wish you much success as you impact the lives of your students. Gary Gary Meers, Ed.D.

Gary Meers, Ed.D.

Discussion Comment

Instructor REFOCUS

David, Having fun as an instructor is one of the reasons I have been teaching for so long. Teaching has never gotten boring to me (note: full disclosure the paperwork, politics, and at time the people have.) but the students and my subject area has not. I am excited at your excitement because you are enjoying your time in helping students to move closer to their career goals. As for the team building time I think it is a good thing if there are clear outcomes and everyone can see why it is important to their professional development. Gary Gary… >>>

Gary Meers, Ed.D.

Discussion Comment

Instructor Enthusiasm

Jennifer, So true. Enthusiasm is catching so spread it around so your students will see your passion for your field and your excitement about getting to teach about it. They will catch the "fever" as well. Gary Gary Meers, Ed.D.

Gary Meers, Ed.D.

Discussion Comment

Re: Effective Retention Strategies

David, To answer your question about the off subject soft skill test I think it is a good idea. The reason is that many students only see their career development in terms of knowledge and skill. By showing them that there is the "soft skill" aspect of career development you are expanding their understanding of what career preparation is really about. It is common knowledge that the majority of positions are lost as a result of poor soft skills rather than the lack of technical skills. Gary Gary Meers, Ed.D.

Gary Meers, Ed.D.

Discussion Comment

Making a Positive First Impression

Demetra, Yes it will and this gives a foundation upon which to build the rest of the course. Gary Gary Meers, Ed.D.

Gary Meers, Ed.D.

Discussion Comment

Implementing Relevant Course Content

Jill, What a great area to be able to teach in. With things changing as rapidly as they are you are never without current examples that can be shared. Since you are letting them work with your clients they are getting real world experience while still students. This is a great situation for them because they are going to have not only knowledge but also experience to take into the workplace with them. Gary Gary Meers, Ed.D.

Gary Meers, Ed.D.

Discussion Comment

Implementing Relevant Course Content

Mercedes, How do you go about getting the information from your students so you can keep current on their knowledge and needs? Thanks for your input on this. Gary Gary Meers, Ed.D.

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