Using guest speakers as resources
What value is a guest speaker in talking with students who are discouraged or about to quit your course?
In a previous forum post you mentioned that you give your guest speakers a list of topics, I think that is a great idea. I also give guest speakers a copy of my syllabus so they know what has been covered up to the point of their visit. Sometimes, I will also give students extra participation points if they ask questions of the guest speaker or ask them to come prepared with 5 potential questions.
Guest speakers, especially individuals in their field can really give them some insight into just how their education will pay off for them in the long run. All students need to be motivated and encouraged so that they don't give up on their dreams.
Hi Maria,
Guest speakers are fabulous. Guest speakers can certainly be used as a networking tool.
Patricia
Brings the student into the real world. Allows students to ask questions that relate to their future.
I had used guest speaker in my class with very good results. This is the best way to motivate students. They also may connect the students with a resource for part time or internship. When the students hear some situation from another former student they seem to relate to the situation they love to ask and take advice from them
The value of a guest speaker is that the speaker can give them real life experience in their field. Sometimes it will be an eye opener for things that they did not know about but should know about.
Hi David,
Students hold onto what the guest speaker presents with vigor and great belief.
Patricia
The guest can let the student know they aren't the ony one who's ever felt this way. I had one student visit multiple classes over a two year period. His input and insights helped many students see their own way through.
There are many benefits but the one that stands out for me is that the speaker brings a fresh fiew of the subject or course. The students stop to listen before forming an argument to the speakers postion. Often times I have found that class discussions that follow the guest speaker's visit develope a deeper interest in the class by the students.
Hi Phil,
I have witnessed the same thing. Guest speakers add validation to what we say in our lectures. Students really do believe the information coming from the guest speakers.
Patricia
Hi Arvice,
Guest speakers are priceless, and they add great flavor to the course. Students enjoy them immensely.
Patricia
Maria and others in our learning team,
Guest speakers keep the students awake and engaged. I have observed that the same information delivered by a guest speaker carries more credibility than the daily instruction that comes from the daily instructor. Capitalize on this. Phil
I agree! Having a guest speaker come into the class rooms changes the atmosphere for all students. It seems to open up their minds and they tend to think outside the box.
Hi Kelly,
I fully understand. Our students enjoy our teaching, but it is good for them to hear from another professional to change things up. I like it how you give your guest speaker a list of things to discuss instead of allowing the guest speaker to have free range.
Patricia
Even though I have real world experience in my field and I try to use examples during our time together, my students tend to enjoy hearing the information or experiences from an alternate source. I find that they really enjoy the break from me (*laughs*), and they like to hear from another person. I usually give that person a list of topics that I want them to discuss, this helps them to keep it relevent to what we are discussing in the classroom.
It is very valuable because it gives students that motivation that may be missing which is causing them to be discouraged or quit. They will see first hand someone who is benefitting from my course.
Hi Paula,
A guest speaker is proof that they can do it! Guest speakers are priceless.
Patricia
I think using a guest speaker can be encouraging for students. It lets students know that they can accomplish the same goal by finishing the course.
Hi Enrique,
Students love guest speakers; guest speakers really shed a lot of light on the teaching in the classroom.
Patricia
