Hi Joseph,
You may want to jot down a list of things you want the speaker to present on instead of a list of objectives.
Patricia Scales
By having a guest speakers helps the students have a more clear understanding of the career they have chosen.
I find guest speakers can be a mixed bag. I have had some that did got way off target on what they were to speak on and others who just interfaced poorly with students. If I am using a guest speaker for the 1st time, I send them the learning objectives for the class they are speaking to. If they are using aids such as a Power Point slides, I try to get it early IOT review and send back comments to keep them on the subject matter if appropriate.
I have not yet used guest speaker in my class. After reading some other comments, I'm excited to try. I can already think of which unit this would work the best in my class. Thank you!
Guest speaker is an effective method to help break the monogamy of listening to the instructor.
Having guest speakers are GREAT motivation for the students. I've already had one this term when my current class seemed deflated and it motivated them to keep on going. I already have another instructor lined up as a guest speaker if I see that look in their eyes again....
Guest speakers often allow a student to visualize what they can achieve if they manage their career wisely. Even if the student is 100% salary motivated, a guest speaker can often bring in to the presentation rewards far greater than monetray ones. A guest speaker creates that special focused visual image the student can call upon in their memory to overcome times of inattetnion and distraction.
Having a guest speaker from the field is a very informative tool. Not only does it allow students to see it can be done; but it brings the reality of what they are working for to the forefront. I plan to use this technique in my classroom
Hi Lourdes,
Guests speakers really bring book theory to real life. Students love hearing about how their career is in the real world.
Patricia Scales
Guest speakers help students understand the expectations in the work force. They also can relate to the discouraged students and reassure them that they are not the only ones that have been sitting where they are sitting and felt like giving up. In addition, even when students are not discouraged or about to quit, the guest speakers are a valuable resource. They help to reinforce the information being given by the instructor. This gives validity to the instructors material, which is especially helpful to new instructors, whose knowledge may be questioned by the students. Especially when students are older than the instructor.
Using guest speakers can motivate students to continue on with their goals. Bringing in a past student is helpful in showing that passing the course can be done. The speaker can talk about their struggles and how they overcame them.
I think like you as well, guess speakers are not utilized to the max. Havinga guess speaker really helps the students to engage with the course, learn from other' experieces, and bring a more realistic view of the course and career that the student its trying to get in.
Guest speakers are a valuable resource for ALL students (and instructors too!). I am fortunate to have access to a number of manufacturer's reps who are always willing to speak with my students. They see my students as potential future customers and my students love the high technology products they bring in as show and tell items. As a result, the less enthusiastic students see relevance in their chosen career field knowing that the equipment on display will most likely be the same equipment they will be using in the field.
These sucessfull students can show others students that 'this course can be passed"
Hi Antoinette,
I agree! Guest speakers are priceless, and they can certainly add reinforcement to what you have taught.
Patricia Scales
When students are able to ask guest speakers some questions about their chosen career, they feel confident that they are getting current, accurate information. Getting reassurance from someone who is presently in the workforce helps students focus more seriously on their own goals.
Hi Rhoda,
Guest speakers are priceless! Graduate guest speakers are the absolute best! Guest speakers add all types of flame to the fire. Students love having guest speakers. Guest speakers bring real life into all the book theory.
Patricia Scales
This is my first experience at intsructing. My director had a former student come and speak to the class about her experence in the field and I was amazed how everyone started getting excited about finishing the course. I will arange for more guest speakers.
I think guest speakers are a great resource. Listening to what others that have gone before you have to say, where they have come from, and what obstacles they have overcome can be inspiring. I makes people think "If they can do it, so can I."
I invite graduates to visit my class for an open question and answer session. The value of this is unmeasureable. Usually we run out of time because of all the enthusiasm generated. The students become truly excited knowing that they, too, can achieve success.
