Hello Sara,
I have the students tell one unique thing about themselves. Wow, you learn some interesting things, and therefore as the instructor you understand how to better deal with the student.
Patricia
Hi Marina,
There is nothing like real-world examples to peak students' interest. Students enjoy the sharing of the practical experience.
Patricia
I bring up real world examples that remind the students of why they chose to persue this career path. Students stay motivated when they realize that the real test is when they encounter the same issue at a shop and that seems to do the trick.
What are some methods you use to get students excited about your course and understand course requirements?
I always start a new course with a 2-part ice-breaker activity to get them excited. The first part is a "Needs Assessment" or (KWL). It usually consists of 3-4 questions about what a student already knows about the course, what they want to know about the course, and how they plan to use this info in the industry.
After the needs assessment, we usually play a short game (2 truths & a lie). I give them an example, and tie it back into the class. Then they go around the room telling their truths and a lie. It's usually very engaging, and the students get to know each other pretty well.
As far as understanding the course requirements, I go over our standard "day by day" (modified syllabus) so the students know what to expect as far as grading/tests/projects are concerned. I also go over my expectations of them as students. At the end, I leave time for questions and offer my email address for those who don't want to ask a question in class.
I find that these techniques help get the students excited about the class as well as understand the requirements.
I haven't had the students sign the syllabus before, but I like the idea; it's real-world, too, just like signing an employee handbook/contract.
Are there any other really successful ice-breaker activities that anyone else has used?
~Sara Clukey
I usual use visuals to demonstrate real scenarios or examples pertaining to the course subject. Students are more receptive and may have a understanding when they can relate to the subject. I also deviate from the book, so that students do understand the concept as well. Students become more engaged once they are able to relate their experiences to the subject matter.
The first day, I have the students tell the class a little about their background, their interests, and their motivation for taking the course. As I learn about each of them, I try to respond to each individually as to how the course would benefit them. Additionally, I try to incorporate a group website where the students can interact with other students and the instructor over the internet. They seem to like that.
Hello Marie,
I am sure you have picked up some great ideas from having students brainstorm. Students need to be able visualize the end product.
Patricia
We do some brainstorming at the beginning of the course. Really, the sky's the limit as far as getting the students to relate their personal experiences into the relevance of the course objectives and content. It's great to get the student thinking about using the skills in their "real-world" application - whatever that ultimately might be.
Hi David,
Typically what type of things do you do on the very first day in lab? What type of feedback have you gotten from your students pertaining to the lab on the first day. It sounds like a great idea!
Patricia
Hi Stacey,
I first build a rapport with my students. I smile, I am friendly with them, but they know there is a line because I am the teacher. I greet them every day I enter the room. I speak their language, yet I maintain professionalism. Whenever we are all caught up with work, we chat on various topics. I show them the utmost respect, and they show me the utmost respect. I show them that I care, and they know that I am there for them. I lead by example, and I am fully energized every day!!!!
Patricia
Patricia,
Would you mind sharing some of your ideas on how you make the class interesting and exciting? I would love to hear them!!!
I find going lab the first day class get them very up for the course.
Hi Stacey,
I teach a Career Development course as well, and it is the most exciting and interesting course to my students! They absolutely love it, and I love teaching it. We have a great time, and they learn an abundance of information.
Patricia
Hi Diana,
When students can visualize their succes, you are right what a great sense of excitement and interest. I went back to me visualizing myself one day as a teacher, the visualization was a great motivator.
Patricia
Hi Meredith,
It is good to put the responsibility back on the student. After all they should have in mind what it is they want to accomplish from the course.
Patricia
I like to go around the class and ask them what their long term goals are. This allows me to apply what they are learning to their goals. I also ask them what they want to get out of the course which turns it back to them.
Meredith
I try to be as excited and as upbeat as possible on the first day of class. As I go over the syllabus I try to relate it to the students when they are out working in their fields; for example, I explain why we are doing this particular chapter and I explain why they will need it. I believe that when students can picture themselves in a professional setting doing what we are learning in class it gets them excited, interested, and involved in the class.
On the first day I like to discuss the course objectives and what the student will get out of this course. I teach a Career Development course and a lot of the students find the course bland and boring because they are not focused on searching for a job at that time. I like to emphasize that this course is preparing them to conduct a successful job search and my job is to ensure that they have a professional cover letter and resume. I find that relating my course to the real world gets the students more interested.
Hi Andrew,
Just as we are educators, we must be real good entertainers too. What a perfect mixture, having fun while learning.
Patricia
Hi Mary,
Students are always excited to hear about your personal experiences. Students want to know what goes on in the real world.
Patricia
