Inviting a guest speaker to class is a great way to get students interested in a particular lecture topic. It can also help students (and instructors) make outside connections that could lead to job or internship opportunities, etc. This course suggests that guest speakers can engage students by showing them an example of a successful individual in-field.
I think students really enjoy having guest speakers.
Hi Suwaid,
Great points made! Guest speakers certainly add a lot of validity to the classroom. Guest speakers validate what has been taught. Students enjoy guest speakers and really respect their perspective and opinion.
Patricia Scales
Students look at guest speakers as a different voice in relationship to the teacher. A fresh aspect to the field they are eventually going to end up in. Students feel that guest speakers are the most current source of "the way things are" in their field of study. Students have two different perceptions towards career and education, the "school way" and the "real world away." Guest speakers develop a link between the two methodologies of thought.
I really think having a guest speaker is definitely a big plus to students. It seems like it can really motivate them and its also very inspiring. When a guess speaker comes with real life experience and success stories it helps students in knowing its possible and can help keep them focus on accomplishing their goals.
Hi Fred,
Guest speakers are super motivating, and they add a lot of flavor to the course. Students enjoy hearing from a guest speakers. Guest speakers typically validate what we have been teaching.
Patricia Scales
A guest speaker can be a great motivator if the students see how he or she (the speaker) sets an example for their future success.
Hi Jeffrey,
You are on point! Guest speakers bring book theory to real life! Students love guest speakers.
Patricia Scales
Hi George,
Yes, graduate guest speakers are the absolute best because they speak from experience based on having attend the same institution as your current students.
Patricia Scales
Guest speakers can be an asset to any course. Getting a guest speaker that is an expert is a certain topic area can enhance student learning and get them excited about a topic. It gives the students an opportunity to hear from someone who is current in the field that can not only educate them about the topic but get them excited. Furthermore, it gives them a break from their instructor who they are always with. It is always amaxing how intrigued the students are with guest speakers and listen to almost every word that they say. For students that are discouraged it will help them to connect what they are learning in the classroom to that of the "real world." It shows them why what they are learning in the classroom is important in them being successful in their chosen career. I have never had a student give a bad evaluation for a guest speaker, only have had them to request more of them.
One of the areas that students focus in on when taking classes is relevancy. Bringing in guest speakers to share experiences and tie the lectures into marketable skills can motivate students by merging the theory into the practical
I believe using a guest speaker is an excellent way to help students that are discouraged or about to quit the course. Some people believe they are the only ones going through difficulties and it is good to bring in someone who is neutral to discuss the challenges they faced and how they overcame them. This discussion can let the student(s) know they are not the only person going through the situation and that they can overcome the problem.
Hi Angela,
Guest spkears are priceless. They add a breath of fresh air to the class. You have a great story to share with your students to keep them/get them motivated. You gained your education later in life.
Patricia Scales
I’ve used a former student as a guest speaker, which was a motivation for the students and inspired many.
A guest speaker can bring value by sharing their stories and their successes. Especially if the guest speaker was a non-traditionl, adult student while working. Most students in my class can related to that situation. If the students can see that success is possible, it can help them stay motivated.
I share my story with every class I teach as well. I was an adult learner, completing my BS in my 30's while working full time. then went on to earn my MA while working full time.
I love brining in guest speakers because they give the students a chance to learn information from someone who is currently working in the field. It also allows them to learn from someone who has a different style of teaching or who may have different knowledge then I do.
Hi Chris,
Graduates are the absolute best guest speakers. They have sat in the same chairs as your current students. They can speak about their experience at your educational institution.
Patricia Scales
This is a great ideal. I have trade specialist and contractor come in to talk but never thought of a graduate. I will be doing this soon. Thanks
I have sought out professionals that are the best in their business to be guest speakers in my class. It motivates the students to graduate and go to work and achieve their best.
Many student can only see what is in front of them. Continuing with college to achieve a long term career goal may be too abstract for some students, particularily the younger ones.
Having a guest speaker helps them visualize their long term goals and see that there is a light at the end of the tunnel.
