Instructor Experience
On the first day of class we not only orient the student with their new surroundings but we introduce ourselves and talk about our experiences and all the wonderful opportunities that await them when they graduate. We also discuss student's past experiences and the reason they came to school instead of continuing on their previous path to help them define their "dream".
Nicolette,
The reflection on their learning and it's meaning to their futures is a very good practice.
Ron Hansen, Ed. D.
Jessica,
Bringing your real world experience into the classroom is exactly what helps make the career school experience different than traditional schools.
Ron Hansen, Ed. D.
I definitely think its a "do" to explain an instructor's experience with the students. Not only does it build trust with your students, but I often explain my struggles and success.
Showing students that you have a passion for your profession motivates them to want to be like you. I think that a good attitude is key to being a good influence on them. I'm also starting to get ideas about getting my students to be more introspective; having them write out their good qualities and what their passions might be, then making a collage that stays up on the classroom wall could be a good everyday reminder when times get tough.
It is the expectationof every student to have the opportunity to learn from a seasoned professional in theeir field of study. Inexperienced instructors are seen as frauds by the students.
I also do this, especially giving examples of great opportunities I had in the industry, and I often share experiences I had in the field, to provide relevence to the information being covered. This is especially effective if done in a positive & enthusiastic manner.
Bruce,
I love that you are getting students to relax... now, try to add "fascination for the subject" at the begining of a course too.
Dr. Larry Banks
I make it my priority to do the same at the begining of each class.This places the students in a relaxed state to start dicussions about way they came to school and make them aware of their future opportunities in their choosen field.
It's important to have the students view the teachers as professionals as well as instructors. At the college I work for we are constantly inviting industry professionals to come and give lectures. These lectures validate what's being taught in the classroom and helps the students remember that the teachers are teaching relevant information because they are professionals in their respected fields as well.
On my first day of class each phase, I introduce myself and tell my students of my work history prior to becoming an Instructor. I tell them about the type of work I did, and a few stories about the three jobs I’ve had that covered over 38 years in this, and a related field. I motivate them by telling them that by applying yourself, whether in class, or on the job you may reap rewards, which sometimes have an immediate effect on your life, or will help you in the future. I take them thru my life from being exactly in the same position they are now, to what they may accomplish through a good education and hard work.
for our students not giving an oral history and examples of your professional industry experiance can be a huge disservice for them. COFIDANCE IN THEIR INSTRUCTORS IS ESENTIAL AND KNOWING THAT THE INSTRUCTR DIDN'T JUST RISE UP THROUGH THE EDUCATIONAL RANKS WITHOUT LIFE EXPERIANCE ILLUSTRAITS THE PRODUCT THEY'RE BUYING IS AN SUPIEOR ONE.
Brian,
Perfect. This act will make a good impression on students.
Dr. Larry Banks
