Students are able to get outside profeshionalism on a field trip. The students get a better understanding of the real enviroment of their career solection.
Oh we went to a lab in Scottsdale here in Arizona. They ended signing my students up for a class in denture where they take an impression that replace a step and will save the doctor hours. This will give them a leg up when they go on extern. They also took two names and numbers of my other students for possible jobs because the students we interested in the lab. But the best thing was my students now understand dentures much better.
We have also volunteered for what is called HopeFest here in Arizona as well as Queen Creek Compassion and AZ MOM's this year. They took so much away from those events. At those events we helped the under served with assisting, sterilizing, runners. and what ever else was needed.
The guest speakers we have had have been great! They motivate and teach the students.
It is a visual, and an active approach. I can teach my students about different things, but seeing them, and recognizing them create a deeper understanding. My students always come back saying, "I get it now!"
Kaley,
Yes, I have seen this too. Some experiences are so motivating that students will actually begin to buckle down and begin to take their classes more seriously. I think an activity that can inspire like that is very worthwhile.
Barry Westling
It allows them to see themselves in their chosen field. It lets them hear from people that have a different perspective then what they have heard or been apart of in the past. Increases learning dramatically.
Sherry,
Sometimes I'll ask a guest speaker to cover certain topics and/or make sure they mention "XYZ". I do that to make sure the experience will be meaningful and practical for the students. Even so, the guest usually puts their own spin on the information, and to hear it from another perspective and sometimes, different emphasis makes for a beneficial experience.
Barry Westling
Students benefit from taking fieldtrips to observe real world applications to what they have learned in class. On occasion, I have even had students secure jobs and/or internships by demonstrating professionalism and a willingness to learn.
Guest speakers often reiterate what you have been teaching the class, but to hear the information from someone else tends to drive it home.
