instruction style.
is it necessary to always stick to the course content while teaching or is it ok to give examples from our lifetime experiences in addition to the topic, so that they can understand better while teaching?
It depends upon the corporate culture or the school policy - and whether or not it is a private school or public school as public schools are more restrictive. Generally speaking the students respond favorably when you give them real world experience scenarios and how it applies to what they have learned and what they should expect out there in the "real world".
Hi Stevie,
I know it helps with student self-esteem and confidence when you take the time to listen and talk with them about their career experiences. They like it when their instructor is interested in their goals and career success.
Gary
I completely agree that sharing life experiences related to our fields is a valuable tool. I also like to have my students who are already out in the job field to share their experiences and ask any questions (whether in front of the class or just with myself) about situations that may have happened or may arise in the future. I think taking the time to show your interest in their future and their success helps build their self-esteem and boost their confidence in what they are doing. I also think it helps me to remember what it was like when I was in their shoes just starting out in their specific profession.
Hi Patricia,
You make a number of very good points about creating a connection with students. These types of relationships are what form the foundation of rapport and respect with students. Not to mention the students see you as being "real" since you have practical experience that you bring to the classroom.
Gary
I believe appropriate sharing of life experiences related to the curriculum content is a valuable tool to reinforce learning because it allows the students to connect and identify with the instructor as a real person who has "walked the walked" rather than merely "talking the talk. I recall one instructor in grad school who took the time to share personal experiences from his professional career and it left a very positive and lasting impact because I had the added dimension of a "human face" attached to what I was learning.
Hi Bob,
You are right about students needing to relax a bit between learning sessions. You can give content for 10-15 minutes and then share some examples of how this content can be used. This lets the students refresh their brains a bit and get ready for the next segment.
Gary
Not only does using personal examples make the students feel more comfortable with you as an instructor, it also lets them "relax" a little from the intense subject presentation. Bob L.
Hi Srinivas,
You should share the course content and then support the content with examples from real life. Students really like examples where they can see applications of their newly acquired knowledge. Bring in as much real life as you can to the classroom setting.
Gary
