Showing student work is a great way of motivating new students. It shows what they can accomplish after successfully completing the course.
Showing examples not only helps students visualize what they will be accomplishing, it also gives them an end-product to focus on throughout the course or lesson. Seeing a finished product can really help motivate them and make them excited about the skills they will be learning.
Adult learners without computer skills are at a disadvantage, which is why preformatted templates for the assignments can also be helpful.
I have noticed that adult learners tend to over think the obvious. They establish high expectations for their personal performance, and can easily psych themselves out thinking that assignments are much more difficult than they actually are. Providing example helps the student set appropriate and definitive expectations for their performance.
so that they are prepared.They also have a better understanding of the course content.
The use of examples works up to a point. I am hesitant to let students see examples from former students because many times they will just copy the work instead of developing their own critical thinking skills to complete the assignment.
So that they have a clear understanding of their upcoming work, and begin to think over the work as soon as possible.
I believe this will give them a clear understanding of what is being ask of them. It can also, help to get them thinking of ways they can start there project
It is really helpful to give examples because you might have students that are visual so they have to see what is being done. It keeps students engaged.
Understanding expections provides clarity for better focus and higher achievement
Hi Erik,
I agree! Most learners are visual, and if they can see something they gain a better understanding.
Patricia Scales
Examples are a great teaching tool because it gives the students a chance to visualize the content that is being discussed and in turn they could relate better to the material at hand.
Showing students work that they will be doing helps them to be engaged, excited, and also to ease their fears of starting something new. Adult learners tend to be nervous that they will not have the computer skills necessary to "keep up" with younger students, but when they see that the skills are not impossible they begin to show more acceptance.
I show examples of student work so that students have an idea of what they are expected to do. plus it gives them some create ideas and hopefully sparks some interest for them to learn about the topic. I like to show examples of posters, newsletters, 3D projects, etc...
Hi Susan,
One excellent example is sufficient.
Patricia Scales
It's been my experience that many of my students find it hard to visualize what is expected. A clear and specific example makes the assigment seem doable and lowers the intimidation factor. I agree with what has already been said that it raises the bar to see a quality product. Just as hands on practice makes a skill come alive, a real students work example make the assignment come alive.
What do you think is the optimal number of examples to show a class for one assignment?
By providing students with examples of the work they will be performing while in your course allows them to better understand the type of work being done, and also sets the expectation of the quality of work expected.
Hi Judith,
Visual is always the way to go when visual aid can be used. Students get a better understanding when they can see it.
Patricia Scales
Hi DeOnn,
Absolutely! Students love it when we make things crystal clear to them.
Patricia Scales
Hi Nikki,
I agree! Students are not nearly as nervous about the assignment when examples are shared.
Patricia Scales
Hi Roland,
Some of our students do have hig anxiety when it comes to academics. Sharing examples will decrease the apprehensiveness.
Patricia Scales
