Allow students to role play in group discussion.
Jaclyn,
This is such an important part of the teaching/learning process. The more examples you can provide the better because students will then see how applications can be made of the content and skills as well as the relevancy of why certain content is be taught. The more connections between the course content and the real world the students can make the better.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
As an instructor for adult learners, one of the goals is to continually apply the course content to real world scenarios. In order for adults to become engaged and put effort into learning they need to know why they are learning something or participating in an activity. Explaining how it is applicable and when and how they will use it is the best course of action in engaging this type of learner.
Jeff,
Application and relevancy are two very powerful parts of the learning process. The more you can show both the more value students will associate with the content and this increases their motivation levels.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
The most important strategy I have used is to try to have the present the course content, including labs, by how they are going to use this in the field. Student want to know how it is done in the field. Some of the best "labs' have been real problems another department is having with their network and having our computer students treat it like it was a client in the field.
Tammy,
Both of these elements go a long way in helping students to make applications of the content as well as see the relevancy of the examples being shared. Keep up this type of sharing and instructional interaction.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I use examples of real-world experiences as related to the topic. If possible I try to add humor to the example.The students seem to remember better when they can relate the topic to a humorous story.
Jason,
This is a good strategy to use as it helps the students to see that you have both the experience and expertise to be their learning leader while they are enrolled in the course.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I try to provide examples and scenarios about myself involved in the field to help show students my teachings are real world issues and actions they may encounter in the job market.
Peyman,
The more you can connect the dots for students the better. You are doing such via your own experiences and applications of the content. This way you are enhancing the value of the content being offered.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Lauren,
Great advice to share with veteran teachers. By sharing you help beginning teachers to be able to focus on all the little things that go into preparing to teach without have to come up with the content for a complete course. As has been said: Share, share, share.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
By asking if anyone has any idea or any experiences about the subject is going to be talked about , and if they would share their experience with the class. I will follow my lecture by relating the course content with my own experience and use their experience if any to explain the subject.
Donna,
Right you are. This is where both application and relevance comes alive.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Jeffrey,
How do you do these two methods in your classes?
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Since I am new to teaching, I really appreciate when course content has been provided to me by previous instructors who are open to sharing their materials, insights, and recommendations. It really helps to see how content has been delivered in the past and how the objectives have been met.
For those seasoned teachers out there...share your content with the next generation. We depend on you!
Teaching medical ultrasound requires the use of a lab where the students can practice scanning each other. It doesn't get more relevant than that! :)
brainstorming and mini lectures
Dona,
Good approach. The more you can help them "own" the content the better. You are doing such with this strategy so they can become invested and have a good return as a result of the investment.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Strategies I implemented for making my program relevant and applicable to the learning needs of my students involve having an interactive lecture. I use a whiteboard and ask students to brainstorm ideas and questions on a topic which supports my program. This becomes then the work of the students to use critical thinking, to devise solutions and to have ownership in maintaining retention. This prevents me “boring†them with lecture as they in a sense created and own their own lecture.
Michael,
These stories bring both relevance and application to the content. When you share one of your stories your students see why you are teaching what you are and how it will impact their career development.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
