Keeping it real!
I try to relate the class or lecture topic to practical application in the real world, and how they can use it.
Sean,
Sharing real world experiences helps to add value to the content being shared and shows students relevancy to what they are learning. The more examples the better because this will give them a realistic view of what their career is going to be like.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I find that real world experiences accentuate the material and makes the job of just reading a book more interesting. I liken the experience to watching the movie based on a book first, then reading the book.
Chris,
This is important for students to have exposure to since they are going to have to transition from being students to workers in their career area. They need to see what it is really like to see if it is the career for them.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Keeping it real is great. letting the students know how the real world will treat them is beneficial. there is no need to sugar coat things, then push them out and its not what they expected
My strongest asset is what I have learned and how I can share these valuable "hands on" experiences with the students. It really seems to motivate them to know that I've experienced what it is they are looking for.
Vickie,
The more connections you make between the course content and real world applications the better. This is what increases the value of the course to the students. They start to see how the content is relevant to them and their career success and this increases their motivation.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
So do I relate the class topic to practical and the student like that because they all join in and connect with each other.
MorningStar,
Yes, they do. They really perk up when a story is shared and examples given. These practical applications increase the relevancy of the content for the students.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Students love hearing about their field and real stories and experiences! I enjoy sharing them as well! It gets them exited for what is to come!
Thomas,
You are right there seem to be some students that never catch on to the value of the course content. Not sure why they are even there. I work hard to engage such students but if they chose not to become involved that is their choice. I concentrate on my students that want to be there and help them move closer to their career goals. They are the students that bring me much satisfaction and keep me coming back to the classroom year after year.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
The question "How does this apply to my career goals?" always comes up in class. It is up to the instructor to show the students the answer to that question. Remember, there will always be students who lack motivation for any number of reasons. Letting them see how the subject applies to their life can turn that around. Maybe not for all, but I believe for most, this is true.
I try to use as many life experiences of the field as possible, but what do you do when your life experiences in the field only go so far because you been out of the field so long?
David,
I am sure your students really enjoy these stories as the reinforce the content that is being shared in the course. In addition, they help with motivation because they show relevancy and application.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I teach surgical tech so i tell them about cases i've done.
Thomas,
It is a must if we are to be models of our profession. By being current with our content and practices we increase the value of our courses to our students. This gives them an understanding of the ROI for the course.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I agree with keeping instruction relevant to the student'd chosen career field. For instructors it is imperative to stay updated in their field in order to maintain effectiveness in the classroom and lab.
Mark,
Students like hearing stories from the field and with you owning and operating a business you have an ongoing source of the latest stories that you can share with your students. Keep up the sharing because I know your students appreciate it.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I own and operate my own business so I try to give my students real life stories of infield experience to help them learn.
Hi Stanley,
Just like the course talks about, relevence is everything. I teach automotive courses where all that we do will eventually transfer to hands on. My students who were good in science soon find out that what they learned becomes relevent for automotive.
