Engage in Science
Teaching science courses to students who do not have a science background can be challenging. One of the best ways to engage a non-traditional student in a science course is to begin a class/lecture with a current topic that specifically relates to the content. If one is able to excite the student about a topic - they will more likely succeed in completing their course assignments.
Christopher,
Real world examples make the content come alive and increases the value of the content for the students. In addition, the stories help the students to see the relevance and application of the content. So the more connections you can make the better!
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I agree. Science can sometimes be very detail oriented and dry, especially for students without a strong science background. Giving real world examples that tie an experience from the industry to the science topic the students are learning is both motivating as well as a great way for the student to remember the material.
We recently got new textbooks for our Introduction to Life Sciences course, and this is something they are very good at. The mini "stories" in each chapter are very relevant!
Carlos,
I support your efforts to make the content relevant to the students. I teach a gen ed course that my students have to have in order to receive their state certificates. They don't see any value in the course and it is my job to convince them, through applications and examples that the course does in fact have value to them. Always a great feeling when I am able to do so and I see them get excited about what is being taught.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Luiza,
You make a good point about capturing the interest of the students and then helping them to move forward in the material. This is critical if you are going to be able to keep such students in the class and making progress.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I agree Luiza. With many students who struggle in any field it is important to also show them how the information can relate to them. It gives them a clearer picture of why the foundations of science, math, English, and history is relevant and important for them to know. Some instructors who just teach the basics but do not share the relevancy does not help the student who struggles in that topic. When finding a topic to relate to, that student can then take that information and retain it throughout their daily life.
