Guest Speakers!!
I always plan field trip related to the Program in which I teach (Sterile Processing), but I never thought about having a Guest speaker, I would feel as an instructor that having a group of students at a site to recieve a hands-on tour would be much more beneficial and would be much more exciting than a guest speaker!
Hi Shandra:
Both activities have their benefits and merits. It' like a dose of reality for either experience.
In the example you gave, it's probably true that scheduling a tour of a local sterile processing location would be interesting and give the students a broader perpective about what they've been learning about in class.
A guest speaker may be able to share some light on common problems to look for, issues in the industry, job and employment opportnities, sort of the good, the bad, and the ugly of it all. Also, they can help validate points you've made in class, which is always a good reflection on the teacher when students hear information form a third party.
An enthusiatic speaker can inspire, motivate, and instill a greater desire to students to try harder, probably because they begin to invision themselves in the work setting.
Regards, Barry
Hi Tamara:
I believe recent graduates are among the better individuals to be invited as guest speakers. As you pointout, they are enthusiastic, motivated, exciting to liten to, and I think students can visualize themseleves in that student more so than a seasoned pro who seems has been round forever and knows all. But do they have the same level of enthusiasm?
Regards, Barry
Hi Kathy:
Having professionals (doctors or other experts) come to speak in the class is an effective and unique learning activity. Hardly anything matches the motivational potential having guest speakers bring to the classroom.
Regards, Barry
I would like to have a Dr. from each field of dentistry come and do a short presentation so that they can give the students some in put and understanding in that area before they leave of us
Many students often return to school for an update of the work force and are highly enthuisatic about thier new journey. I mostly, keep time limited to question and answer so that I can get back to the class and never thought I should have them give a presentaion to the entire class. Upon the next visit form a former student I will have them involved during class time and come up with a outline for the student to follow as we invite the current class to ask questions.
