Thanks for the reply Gary. It also sets me off, because I feel that each session is important as well. I like the idea of points earned.I give extra credit from time to time, however, your system will prove to be more beneficial to the students. Thanks again.
Shelia,
I have the same challenge with my students. I am frequently asked about the next class. They ask "are we going to do anything important in class tomorrow?". This really sets me off because I believe we do something important each time we meet. I answer them by having almost every class meeting result in points earned. I have a number of points (called Professional Points) that are given throughout the course. The students earn them during discussions, Q&A sessions, and case studies. This means that each class can generate points which leads to an improved grade and I get improved attendance.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Rob is exactly correct. In addition to the great techniques that have been discussed to increase the relevancy of the materials, it is necessary to set expectations. This starts with the title and the course description. Students sign up for professional development courses with the expectation that it will meet their particular needs for performance improvement, expansion of skills, or new opportunities. And, while good instructors can and do adjust to meet the needs of the students, sometimes the flexibility is limited. Setting expectations before the class begins with an accurate course title and description and listing the course learning objectives (when space permits) goes a long way to ensuring relevancy for the students and also maintaining motivation during the course.
I agree. Students want to be able to associate what they're learning to the skills they will be performing in the field. Our students tend to check the syllabus calendar and decide what days are not "as important," and take off or come to class late. For instance, if we have a skills test scheduled, the students will not miss. On the other hand, if the day is lecture only, they may choose to sleep in. I have found that explaing why the lectures are relevant adds value for most students.
Douglas,
I teach a required upper level courses needed to get state certification so I can relate to your comments. I have to bring zeal and passion for the content and show students how the course content impacts their lives so they don't just dismiss the course as another hoop to jump through prior to graduation.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Absolutely. Any course you teach should have some relevance to you, otherwise - why teach the course. Even basic courses, say, Intro to Management, which I have taught, has to be relevant to the teacher. The trick is to make it releveant to the students, some who probably just, "have to take the course to graduate".
Cynthia,
This is a good way to show students that you value the life experiences they bring to class. In addition by having them share other students gain additional insight into how life experiences impact career exploration and development.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Often I will have a student share a personal experience, or I will give one to demonstrate relevance. Sometimes I will use a current event
Marvin,
This is what keeps students engaged. They have to personalize the course to themselves and see how it will benefit them in the future. If they don't make the connection they have a hard time seeing value in what is being taught. Your approach helps them see that value.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Often I try to show the relevance of the course that I teach to my students by exsplaining how it helped me in my career. But first it truely has to be relevant to me. I've learned that the best way to help them to make the connection is to see the connection for yourself.
Robert,
In my classes I strive for relevancy and application. Your comments illustrate the importance of showing relevancy in the learning process. If students do not see relevancy to what they are learning then they don't associate value to the course.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I agree with Rob. Often the question is asked "why is this important for me?" and if I as an instructor can link it to something that is practical I seems to have more traction. Even more importantly, if a student can make a reference as to how it helps them to understand something in their own experience, even better.
