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

Using a Well-prepared Syllabus

Hi Mark, Good question and to which I don't have an answer. If the school requires a syllabus be given to the students for each course then that needs to be done. I can't imagine teaching a class without a syllabus because neither the students nor I would have a guide to follow. That to me is working without a net in terms of keeping students engaged and focused on the course. Gary

Gary Meers, Ed.D.

Discussion Comment

Using a Well-prepared Syllabus

Hi Ben, Right on. By being clear about policies, expectations and requirements you are helping the students to understand how the course is going to operate. That understanding goes a long way in helping them be successful. Gary

Gary Meers, Ed.D.

Discussion Comment

Instructors as Role Models

Hi Vicki, Good point and one that needs to be reinforced to students throughout their course of study. To be perceived as professionals they have to dress and act like professionals. Once they make that connection they are really moving forward in their career development. Gary

Gary Meers, Ed.D.

Discussion Comment

Instructors as Role Models

Hi Alicia, Good strategy for not only informing the students in relation to content you are also showing them how they can demonstrate their human relations skills by reflecting professional behavior. This helps them to make the connection between the classroom and the work world. Gary

Gary Meers, Ed.D.

Discussion Comment

Making Your Expectations Clear

Hi Peggy, I like it. You are helping them to see that you understand where they are coming from because you have been there. I am sure this really helps them to understand that you want them to be successful if they will put forth the effort. Gary

Gary Meers, Ed.D.

Discussion Comment

Making Your Expectations Clear

Hi Mark, Good idea and one that really gets to class off to a good start while helping the students get settled into the course. This builds a sound supportive base from the very beginning of the course plus you know what the students know about the syllabus. Gary

Gary Meers, Ed.D.

Discussion Comment

Expanding Your Instructional Abilities

Hi Jennifer, I agree about the benefits of attending conferences and conventions. In addition to the information you gain you create networks that will help you throughout your career. Gary

Gary Meers, Ed.D.

Discussion Comment

Instructor REFOCUS

Hi LeeAnne, This is a great way to keep reminding yourself of why you are a teacher and how you are impacting the lives of your students. Be excited and focused on your teaching helps with student motivation. Gary

Gary Meers, Ed.D.

Discussion Comment

The Human Factor in Retention

Hi LeeAnne, Learning is an emotional process as well as a cognitive one. Your point is a good one in relation to engaging the students to the point they want to come to class because they know they are expanding their knowledge base to further enhance their careers. Gary

Gary Meers, Ed.D.

Discussion Comment

Student Feedback

Hi Barbara, What a great attitude about how to use feedback as a part of your professional development. By listening to them and internalizing what they share you can expand your abilities as an instructional delivery expert. Gary

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