The Experienced Student
There is always, especially in technical institutes, the student who literally knows the information covered in the class or for the entire term/semester because they already have professional experience with the material. When it is impossible to move them into another class, what are suggestions to help keep their attention and enthusiasm during the term/semester?
Ryan,
You make a good point about the need for balance in the different types and format for instructional delivery. The professional aspects of any career area need to be taught and practiced by students as they move through their program.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
I do agree with skills still being learned in the class room setting. I am a second term instructor for a automotive program and I see this all the time with my students. Professionalism is a huge skill that is lost when you learn only in the field, were as the class room is perfect place to learn the importance of being a professional.
I utilize the student's knowledge. While we are not set up to have assistants, I can take advantage of a student's knowledge on a subject to help me during class. If I'm busy with a student and another needs some help, I will often ask the more knowledgeable student to help their peer. That student then gets extra credit in class.
Students who are currently working are being taught by a Technician or supervisor. The basics of what they are learning are usally taught to them, but alot of times there are finer points, or better ways of performing a task that their mentor has missed or has not performed themselves.
The same can be said for students who work in a different field from what they are studying. They can apply any new knowledge such as professionalism and customer relations to their existing jobs which should help them improve their role in the current career.
Richard,
In cases like this I set up a series of case studies for them to work through. This way they get to use their knowledge and experience but they have to expand both in order to respond to the studies. This keeps them engaged and excited about what they are learning.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
