Showing relevancy of course content
What are some ways you can show your students the relevancy of your course?
I believe it is very important to find out the interests of the students on the first day. I use this information to discuss the course objectives. Typically, the courses that I teach have students with similar degree programs, which allows me to use real world examples from their majors. Also, I feel that if you demonstrate that you are trying to tie the course content into their specific areas of interest, they will pay attention during the lectures.
I agree, in this job market it is all about which candidate offers the best skills for the job. In our document processing course we have students compile a sample of their skills with completed documents for their professional portfolio.
So that they can invision what their future will hold for them.
Asking them to respond to a situational role playing activity that I have encountered in the field....ask for several ways to handle the situation...then reveal the actual event outcome that happened. This is a great way to get students to see "real life" situations and the various outcomes that can result providing relevance to learning that topic.
Hi Maria,
Students love it when they know how the content will be utilized in the workplace. Students gain a level of high interest when they know what they are learning is useful.
Patricia
I show the importance of not only the theory and knowledge, but the importance of acquiring practical skills. I give my students examples of clinical cases that they apply the knowledge taught in class. Additionally, we do something practical in every lecture so that students see the applicability of the course
Mary
For the variety of fields I teach, showing relevancy of course matter is essential. Giving examples especially at the start of the class helps my classes see that the time and energy they put into my classes will benefit them in their future careers. Practical knowledge from the field also can get students excited about their future careers.
Hi Richard,
Students need to know the connection so that they understand the relevance. Before I begin any concept I first tell why we need to know it so that I get buy in instantly.
Patricia
Hello Ms. Scales:
One possibility is providing linkage to relevant studies in the field, published in media. Since I teach primarily business courses, I like to utilize the Wall Street Journal as a widely read source that publishes articles incorporating techniques that are traceble to theoretical content of the course.
Best,
Susan Weiss
Many times in the class I am asked by students "so what does this have to do with the heart"(I am a cvt instructor).we may be learning pharmacology at the time of the peripheral nervous system.It is extremely important that they make a connection to the work we're doing presently, and the future learning.This I accomplish by giving brief but thorough handouts summarizing the connection.
I do agree that it helps retention but it also makes them see what they are in for and what to expect in real world.
I have a similar struggle with cost control. I try to demonstrate the relevance to my chef-students. Proficiency in this area is what allows talented chefs to make the leap to successful business owners and executive chefs.
My only concern with group projects is that one student tends to dominate and/or carry their group. How does one avoid such a predicament?
Hi Kimberly,
Stating the material will be on the certification exam, chapter test, or quiz generally gets students interested.
Patricia
Hi Maria,
When students understand they need the course in order to do their job, they buy into the course.
Patricia
I have found that students are definitely motivated to learn the material more when I explain that the material will be covered on their certification exam. It may not be the best motivator, but it's something!
In teaching adult learners, it is of premium importance that what they are learning is relevant for the program they are enrolled in. Demonstration of skills as to how it may be done in an actual work environment. Simulating an actual work environment could be another way of showing relevancy. Also, inviting a guest speaker to discuss employment skills is also beneficial.
Hi Ruth,
I like to show/tell my students how the course/skills will help them in the workplace.
Patricia
Using different approaches according to what my students need.
Hi Allan,
Students get it when they are shown/told how the course will benefit them in the workplace.
Patricia
