It provides a relevant perspective
Reality perspective
Guest speakers have been a valuable tool in may of my classes. I have found the key to success with guest speakers and their connection to all students is selecting the right speakers
Speakers that can make that connection with the students lend credibility to the course and the instuctor and their messages
Guest speakers can bring motivation into the classroom along with their expertise.
I have leaned on my previous work friends to come in and instruct. They also are scouting at the time, to fill future open positions. WIN WIN situation!
Hi Stephanie,
Any professional that does math related tasks would be appropriate.
Patricia
I see how guest speakers are a great value when it comes to boost up student motivation regarding the field that they are studying. Now, as I teach math, which professional would be appropriate to bring in?
Hi John,
Guest speakers are great. They add validation to various concepts taught. Students get the opportunity to really pick another expert's brain.
Patricia
When using guest speakers for your class, please be sure to inform the guest speaker about the general makeup of the class is demographics and not only the good points but some of their weak areas. This will give the guest speaker and upper hand in presenting material and you may also wish to as the guest speaker to bring with some supplemental materials to hand out so that there can be an interactive discussion following the presentation and therefore have a successful guest speaker experience.
I teach a Career Development course for new students. During week #6 of the term I introduce my "Student Development Portfolio" assignment. I follow this up by having the Program Directors as guest speakers. The students love this. It offers them an opportunity to get to know thier particular Program Director while receiving critical information on their chosen field. It also offers them the opportunity to ask any questions they may have on the field and the positions within. It's also a great opportunity for the Program Directors to get to know they students individually. Wonderful experience all around for everyone.
Cindy R.
I have brought in guest speakers whose background is in the field of cheeses. They may be vendors or artisan cheese makers. Their knowledge coupled with products for the students to taste and experience has always been instrumental in showing the opportunities in the field that some of have said is milk's leap into immortality.
Hi Diana,
Try it, you will love it. Students enjoy guest speakers.
Patricia
I used to utilize guest speakers at least once or twice a session. However, now I teach online and not sure how to go about incorporating a guest.
I would love suggestions :)
Kelli
This is an interesting concept which I will try in the future.
Have had guests in to speak it changes the flow of the class and gets the students back into the flow of things
Hi Cindy,
They are fabulous! They add so much more flavor (excitement) to the course. Students love having them.
Patricia
I agree these students that have already graduated have goin thru the program and really know what it takes to succed. So having them come into speak is an asset.
Hi Beth,
Guest speakers are fabulous. They really do add validation to what has been taught. The can speak from first hand experience.
Patricia
When possible I use guest speaker or field trips to motivate students. Past students who are now employed in their field have the most effect. As past students are familiar with courses and instructors, they can better relate to the students. The information provided by past students reinforces the instructor’s teaching and credibility.
Hi Heather,
I concur. Graduate guest speakers can shed light from a different perspective...been there done that, and if I can do it, you can do it.
Patricia
Hi Cindy,
Guest speakers add great validity to what has been taught, especially GRADUATE guest speakers.
Patricia
