Gary Meers, Ed.D.

About me

I am an Education Advisor/Consultant for MaxKnowledge. I write courses that assist in the professional development of career college instructors. These courses range in content from the introductory level to advanced instructional development. I started my teaching career as an instructional technology teacher on the high school level, completed graduate school and then moved into higher education. I spent many years in the area of teacher training at the University of Nebraska. While at the University of Nebraska I stared working with career college instructors to improve their instructional delivery skills. As a result of these experiences I have been a consultant to career colleges throughout the United States and a number of foreign countries.

Activity

Gary Meers, Ed.D.

Discussion Comment

Strategies for Keeping Students Engaged in Learning

Hi Steven, This is a good point. There is a saying that reflects the strategy. "To teach is to learn twice" This is true for both we instructors and our students that teach classmates. Gary

Gary Meers, Ed.D.

Discussion Comment

The Learning Environment Effect

Hi Jamie, Right you are. All instructors need to be aware of the "ripple" effect because it can really derail the class quickly. This is what class management is all about. Keeping the class forward focused and moving toward the end goal of acquired knowledge and skills. Gary

Gary Meers, Ed.D.

Discussion Comment

Instructors as Role Models

Hi Peter, Absolutely. Instructors need to wear clean neat attire that models the career area. It may be a business outfit, scrubs or uniform. This helps to show the students how professionals in their field dress. Gary

Gary Meers, Ed.D.

Discussion Comment

Creating Personal Support Systems

Hi Craig, This is a great way of encouraging and supporting the learning of your students. The development of these relationships helps the students to understand how important social interaction is in the work place. Gary

Gary Meers, Ed.D.

Discussion Comment

Being Successful in College

Hi Hope, Good points about how to encourage and support students. I like your saying. It really sets the stage for success. Gary

Gary Meers, Ed.D.

Discussion Comment

Reinforcement as Motivation

Hi Julie, This is a critical part of being an instructor. By encouraging and supporting students as they progress through the course they develop confidence that they can be successful which motivates them even more. Gary

Gary Meers, Ed.D.

Discussion Comment

Developing Clear Goals and Objectives

Hi David, Good point. The students need to be able to "connect the dots" between what they are learning and the real world. Instructors need to work hard at helping them acquire the vision that includes a successful career. Once they capture the vision the excitement and motivation starts to climb. Gary

Gary Meers, Ed.D.

Discussion Comment

Increasing Student Retention

Hi Stacey, This is a great way to create a connection between the beginners and the upper level students. As you say it is a great comfort to know you have someone you can call on when the going gets tough. I am sure this helps to keep the retention level higher for the beginning students since they know and work with upper level students that got through the tough times and are enjoying the new skills and knowledge they have acquired. Gary

Gary Meers, Ed.D.

Discussion Comment

Motivation Through Relevancy and Application

Hi Marie, Application and relevancy are the two words that describe the key reasons why adults learners are enrolled. They know what they want and are willing to put forth the effort to acquire the knowledge and skills that will move their career forward. This is what keeps them focused and engaged. Good points. Thanks. Gary

Gary Meers, Ed.D.

Discussion Comment

Making a Positive First Impression

Hi Eric, Good point that all instructors need to remember. That first impression does set the tone for the coming class so why not make it a positive one and then build from there rather than having to play catch up throughout the course. Gary

End of Content