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

Making a Positive First Impression

Peggy, Yes, it is. I always enjoy the first class meeting because I get to meet and learn about the students I am going to have. I try to have some fun ice breakers and introduction activities planned so we can share, get to know each other and get settled in during the first part of the first class. Then I can go into the class requirements and share the syllabus because the students feel comfortable with each other and myself. Gary Gary Meers, Ed.D.

Gary Meers, Ed.D.

Discussion Comment

The Learning Environment Effect

Tricia, Yes, this is a critical part of the total instructional planning effort. Gary Gary Meers, Ed.D.

Gary Meers, Ed.D.

Discussion Comment

The Human Factor in Retention

Lucinda, Well said in terms of how our personality and attitude can impact the learning of our students. They need to see us as the learning leader that cares about their future and is there to support their success. Gary Gary Meers, Ed.D.

Gary Meers, Ed.D.

Discussion Comment

Understanding Learner Characteristics

Alicia, So true and such an important part of planning as you get ready to launch a new class. We need to know as much as we can about our students and we can do this through introductions and ice breakers at the first class meeting. Gary Gary Meers, Ed.D.

Gary Meers, Ed.D.

Discussion Comment

Understanding Learner Characteristics

Lucinda, Good point because this is how you are going to reach each and every student enrolled in the course. Gary Gary Meers, Ed.D.

Gary Meers, Ed.D.

Discussion Comment

Learning from Instructor and Student Introductions

Kristopher, Right you are and this is why the first class meeting needs to be well planned and organized. Gary Gary Meers, Ed.D.

Gary Meers, Ed.D.

Discussion Comment

Using a Well-prepared Syllabus

John, Your explanation of the value that a well prepared syllabus contributes to starting a new class off well is a good one. This document is so important to have, share and refer to so the students know what the policies, expectations, and requirements are and can work toward them. Gary Gary Meers, Ed.D.

Gary Meers, Ed.D.

Discussion Comment

Your Instructional Style

John, Good professional development plan. Gary Gary Meers, Ed.D.

Gary Meers, Ed.D.

Discussion Comment

Developing Critical Thinking Skills

Miriam, Good list and steps that can be taught in classrooms and labs. By teaching these elements of critical thinking I know your students are leaving your class with ideas about how they can be problem solvers in their careers. Keep up the good work. Gary Gary Meers, Ed.D.

Gary Meers, Ed.D.

Discussion Comment

Critical Thinker Characteristics

Miriam, Your faculty discussion had to have been a good one because this discussion is being held in all kinds of settings. Schools, businesses, industries, etc. feel that individuals lack critical thinking skills. This is why we are offering more opportunities in schools to develop critical thinking skills than ever before. It is a critical need area. Gary Gary Meers, Ed.D.

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