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

Application of New Knowledge

Darlene, Good for you in relation to helping the students apply their new knowledge to their lives. This helps them to "connect the dots" between the classroom and the real world. These types of connections reinforces content and helps them to see that they are making progress toward their career goals. Gary Dr. Gary Meers

Gary Meers, Ed.D.

Discussion Comment

The Human Factor in Retention

Joel, If we can help them directly or through referral to the appropriate agency to help them find shelter and personal support then we have performed a critical service in relation to keeping students in school. The students need to know we want them to be successful and are willing to support them if they will put forth the needed effort. Gary Dr. Gary Meers

Gary Meers, Ed.D.

Discussion Comment

The Human Factor in Retention

Tom, So true. This is why I like teaching. I get to work with students with all kinds of life experiences and backgrounds. I get to learn each time I teach a class and that to me is a great reward as a teacher. Gary Dr. Gary Meers

Gary Meers, Ed.D.

Discussion Comment

Instructor Enthusiasm

Rory, I agree. Excitement and enthusiasm by the instructor helps to generate both in the students. It is for sure if the instructor isn't motivated to be in the class the students aren't going to be. Teaching is a great occupation, we get to teach what we are passionate about and get a paycheck besides. What's not to like? Gary Dr. Gary Meers

Gary Meers, Ed.D.

Discussion Comment

Being Successful in College

Joel, This is a powerful motivator for students. Seeing one of their own, though already graduated and successful up front talking with them is a wonderful to reinforce what is being taught. I use these same type of guest speakers in all of my courses for the reasons you mention. Gary Dr. Gary Meers

Gary Meers, Ed.D.

Discussion Comment

Being Successful in College

Zeina, Good strategy to follow. Often adult students need reinforcement to assure them that they belong in college and can be successful. Gary Dr. Gary Meers

Gary Meers, Ed.D.

Discussion Comment

Making Your Expectations Clear

Tom, Good strategy. This follow up is what reinforces to the students that you care about their success both in the course and in their careers. Gary Dr. Gary Meers

Gary Meers, Ed.D.

Discussion Comment

Making a Positive First Impression

DONNA, In what way does it set the tone for the rest of the course. Can you share some examples with us? Gary Dr. Gary Meers

Gary Meers, Ed.D.

Discussion Comment

Using a Well-prepared Syllabus

Carolyn, I agree as well and use the syllabus as the road map and/or GPS for the course. Gary Dr. Gary Meers

Gary Meers, Ed.D.

Discussion Comment

Your Instructional Style

Gary, Students like the "wow" factor as well as the personal stories. It helps them to see relevance and application to what is being taught. Gary Dr. Gary Meers

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