How to get students motivated about a course requirement subject that they will not use directly in their career choice.
I have heard the comment, "I don't know why I have to take this particular course. I am not going to use this subject in the particular area that I am going into." As an instructor who emphasizes cross-training, multi-tasking and job diversity, I explain to the students with this concern that it is always good to have workable skills in other areas. With this added skill set/knowledge base, they can always have an avenue by which they can make a living in the event that an opportunity does not instantly arise in the immediate area of their choice. I also point out that they may actually find it interesting as they progress into the details of the particular subject. Further, I also point out that while they may not deal with the subject on a daily basis, it is definitely related and important in some way to their career choice.
That statement, to me, is indicative of students not getting the message so they can connect the dots that studying other subjects will bolster them in some way they don't yet anticipate.
The problem is not the student's alone, as not everyone involved communicates that message to the student.
A guest speaker who has worked in front and back medical office can help students see the relevancy of course material as well.
Some medical assistants need to know more about medical insurance than others. One student said, "Mr. E., I'm a hands on person." meaning I'll be taking blood pressure readings instead of doing paper work. Our students are learning that insurance companies can only pay the doctor when they receive complete and accurate documentation of every hands on procedure.
The medical assistant gets paid when the medical practice receives payment from the insurance company.
Hi Jonathan,
Students really do need to get a better understanding of transferrable skills. They need to know that in order for you to do well/understand this course, you must utilize what you have learned in a previous course or courses.
Patricia
I try to get students to understand the term "transferable skills". The skills that they are using in this course will help them in other areas.
Hi Hank,
Once students see how they can benefit from the course, they have a great sense of excitement and motivation.
Patricia
While it may be difficult in some courses I teach a basic computer course required for most programs here and have included examples and projects related to other, for example medical tech, fields in their projects. It gives them a reference of how they may use this knowledge in their fields.
Hi Alethea,
I can see this based on one's position. The instructor can really make the same presentation.
Patricia
I agree that having students hear directly from the program supervisors the benefits of gen ed classes goes a long way. If everyone is in agreement as to the "importance" of these classes in their chosen field the students will have more confidence in the class and instructors themselves.
This week I will be leading a workshop on motivating students. One of my key points to instuctors is the importance of "showing" the student the relevancy of the course to the student's career path. As you mentioned, gen. ed. classes can appear difficult to justify in some career fields. I will suggest that the instructors speak with Program Directors for information on why the course is important to the students in their respective programs. In the past I have asked program directors to speak about the importance of gen.ed.classes during stuent program meetings. Our school also participates in mock job interviews. It is a valuable activity.
I have heard that comment all too much! It is more prevalent in the General Education courses. I teach a professional development course and I hear it time and time again. I always make the course relevant to a professional setting. We will do "water cooler" talks, mock job interviews and, will go over all different types of "soft skills" to boost up the students' levels of emotional intelligence.
Hi Michael,
As a student being open minded is a big plus. It is good when you can see outside of the box and into the future.
Patricia
Good point. Letting them know how important it is to keep an open mind to the many things they may see in their field is so important. They may not need to know it right away, but at some point they may come across it and it is always best to be prepared. Very nice post, Carolyn.
