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.

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Gary Meers, Ed.D.

Discussion Comment

Becoming aware of retention strategies...

Hi Briscoe, Good way to start a new class. This way you have idea about your students and they about each other. Also, it helps you to develop rapport with each student since you know a bit more about each individual. Gary

Gary Meers, Ed.D.

Discussion Comment

REFOCUS...

Hi Kevin, It is extremely important to keep the course content alive and exciting. If you as the instructor work to bring change and variety to the course the students will stay engaged in the learning process. Keep up the good work. Gary

Gary Meers, Ed.D.

Discussion Comment

Becoming aware of retention strategies...

Hi Eric, Rapport is an essential part of teaching. By talking with the students and showing them your concern for their success you are helping them to see how they fit into the class. You will see higher retention rates as a result of your efforts. Gary

Gary Meers, Ed.D.

Discussion Comment

The Learning Environment Effect

Hi Sara, You make a very good point about the little things that can become big things if not handled quickly. That noisy heater can pull the attention of students off as much as 40% in a given class period. This makes retention of content very hard for them as a result. Good attention to detail. Gary

Gary Meers, Ed.D.

Discussion Comment

The Learning Environment Effect

Hi Lin, Good idea. Music not only helps to settle students they are learning something besides in terms of culture. This will help them to focus better on the course content and will enhance their retention. Gary

Gary Meers, Ed.D.

Discussion Comment

The Learning Environment Effect

Hi Arlene, Well said about the class environment. It is our professional responsibility to make sure all of the components you listed are in place as our students enter. Once we reduce their fears and they get comfortable with the setting they can focus their attention on learning and career success. Gary

Gary Meers, Ed.D.

Discussion Comment

Motivation techniques...

Hi Sara, Sounds like you are doing all of the right things to try and get all of your students to try for excellence. Unfortunately not all students have that goal as you mentioned. When I have students like that I work individually with them to try and get them motivated to excel. In addition, I show them the difference in employment opportunities there are for high achieving students verses the average students. Through guest speakers and field trips I try and show them how they need to "separate themselves from the herd" to enhance their career future. Sometimes this… >>>

Gary Meers, Ed.D.

Discussion Comment

REFOCUS...

Hi Donald, Good to hear that the course came at a good time for you. I know classes can be difficult depending upon how they come together at certain times. I am encouraged by your positive attitude and command of the behaviors. Keep up the good work. Gary

Gary Meers, Ed.D.

Discussion Comment

Clarifying Your Expectations To Students

Hi Paul, This is a good plan for your students. It is easy for them to forget the end goal of their studies is to gain the knowledge and skills needed to be successful in their career area. Keep reminding them that the final outcome will be a way to shape their future. Gary

Gary Meers, Ed.D.

Discussion Comment

Clarifying Your Expectations To Students

Hi Paul, Your roles as a model, manager and motivator will help you to meet the needs of your students. By being flexible you can make instructional changes as they are needed. Gary

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