Life examples
I like to use real life experience so the student understands the importance of the material. It also lets the students get to know you better.
I use this technique often. You are correct, when you say that students will often mirror instructors..I see it all the time.
I enjoy giving my life/learning experiences that didn't always end well also. I think it is important for a student to see that I made mistakes & learned from it. I also think that my mistake will stick in their mind & prevent them from doing the same thing.
In a lab based class the best way to explain a procedure is through their own experience such as patient care. Then they reflect on their experience thus they want to do a change and be better than what they experienced.
I find this very helpful.
I have always refered to this phenomenon a being a moral exemplar. A teacher is always on display. Teaching and learning occur in many arenas, not just in classrooms. Steve
I have found that taking a step away from the possible repetition of lecture and adding life experiences can be stimulating and informative for students. For testing, students can recall information easier when they can relate it to a real-life story. Also they are able to get a better understanding of what you do which will support your expertise in the field. By relating stories to their field they also will understand why they are learning the material.
I also use life examples. I think students benefit from my experiences, they could just read the material in the book for the information. Real world experience is something they want to hear about.
Hi Nelson,
It sure is a good way to involve the students. I would guess that you are surprised each time students share some of their life experiences. I know I am amazed when they share with me. I currently have 12 former soldiers that serve 2-3 tours in Iraq. They have life experiences as well as perspectives that are very different than my 18 year old just graduated students.
Gary
While I share my life/work experiences when they are on-point, I also ask the class who else has experienced something similar. It is a good way to get more participation, reinforce student experience and validate they are learning relevent material.
I agree when students can apply what they are learning to real life they can make a connection and therefore are more successful in learning.
When introducing a new topic, I start by asking students how they could use this new tool in their future careers. What are some real life applications?
We need to show Professionalism at all times, after all that is what we are teaching and preparing them for.
Hi Paul,
This type of connecting with students is so important. The see you as a real human being that has gone through what they are going through and that you can help them achieve their career goals. This really helps with the development of student rapport.
Gary
I enjoy sharing life, career, and subject experiences that show my enthusiasm and passion for my field.
I like to use life experiences due to the fact that it lets the students see that you are not just an instructor. The students can gain insight and knowledge as to what is out there and what might be expected from them.
I agree I often use my experiences and apply it to the material. I often tell stories that link to the experiences ofen they are funny to keep students interested.
I strongly agree. It makes the content stick with them more if we can give them a real case example and outcome.
I agree, often the students will ask questions about your own personal experiance in the field.
After discussing/clarifying the elements of a concept, I relate a personal experience/story/example to illustrate those points.
The students realize that the concepts of the course are actually used in the "real world."
I agree. Real life examples help bring relevance to the subject students are learning. Adult learners are looking to apply their new found knowledge for career purposes and personal fulfillment. The more we can tie the learning experience to real world applications, the better for the student.
