Enticing a guest speaker?
i love the idea of bringing in a guest speaker. I think the students appreciate hearing a different voice and perspective. Being a new instructor, I've never had to contact someone in the community to serve as a guest speaker. Are there any suggestions on how to approach an "expert" when asking them to be a guest in the classroom?
Hi Jim:
Some institutions will support the idea of giving the speaker a lunch as motivation. Others may even offer money. Sometimes, just asking the person their willingness may work, especially if you know them.
Regards, Barry
Hi Becky:
If it's someone you know in your field, they may be willing to do it just because you asked. If your institution allows, you might offer some kind of pay as an incentive. In some cases, we can arrange to offer career motivations like "continuing education units".
Regards, Barry
I teach classes in the allied health field and we ask our professional contacts. You could try contacts from your previous employment within your career field. Our dean suggested that we give $10.00 gift cards to local restaurants. If the speaker has to prepare a lengthy presentation then she suggested $25.00 gift cards. I have not tried it yet my clinical practice managers and clinic supervisors are willing to come in and speak to my classes.
I teach in the IT field. The trouble I have with getting guest speakers is most of them are introverts and too afraid to stand in front of a room and speak, despite their knowledge level. Finding the right speaker can be tricky for this reason, in my experience.
What subject are you teaching? In most fields, there is a community within of resouces. Everyone knows somebody who likes to teach or share their job and experience. Start networking.
