Real World Relevancy
I like the idea of presenting real world applications for the knowledge to be mastered in the course. Particularly regarding techniques that the student will polish during the term - their ability to master large chunks of information; their ability to synthesize differing points of view on a controversial topic; and, in my teaching, learning how to manage teamwork for a grade that will reflect those skills.
I teach Oral Radiology for a Dental Hygiene program. Although some of the topics can seem non-relevent to the students such as physics and biology, I use "real-world" examples of the effects of radiation on humans by talking about the Chernobyl disaster.
I also tell the students about situations I had with patients in private practice while exposing radiographs. I also let them discuss patients or experiences they may have encountered as a dental assistant.
Hi Chip,
When students can visualize learning they tend to retain the information.
Patricia Scales
I believe that if a student gets real world examples from their instructors, they can have a visual image and emotion to attach to that topic which will facilitate long term memorization.
Chip
Having the ability to relate and convey real-world relevancy puts an instructor far ahead of the question curve. I try, at any junction, to interject a professional situation story concerning the material at hand. This can either head off the common questions or energize the classroom into a great discussion.
Hi Lisa,
Let them know what the relevance is before they pop the question to you.
Patricia Scales
I am tasked with teaching an elective course that has limited applications to the students taking the class. I have to be very creative showing relevance to their career goals.
