Bringing field professionals into the learning process for motivation
Adding proffessionals as project of techniques facilitators or project critique assistants has proven to be an enthusiasm and motivational plus.
Hi Todd,
This really helps to make the connection between theory and practice for the students. They are hearing information directly from professionals as well as being evaluated by them.
Good job.
Gary
Dr. Meers,
The addition of career field professions as a part of the designed learning experience, such as a guest speaker, is one of the best assets an instructor can utilize to validate the theory and/or skills learning of students. Adult learners hear the message, then demonstrate the skill, but when a career field professional comes into the classroom and validates the instructor's message or skills training, the instructor's point really gets driven home. The processes of instruction then often get easier, but sometimes more exciting.
The same can be said for adult learners to participate in field trips. Students are given the opportunities to see first hand and often speak directly with people like themselves, performing the same tasks as they have been learning in the classroom or lab. The benefit here is that it so often creates an even higher level of enthusiasm and focus towards their learning experiences.
David Hall
Having professionals from the field come to the classroom is an excellent motivational tool. My institution invites our graduates to return and discuss their careers, job experiences, and financial rewards. These professionals tell the students how the world really works. The students respond positively to the straight talk and realize there is an end goal to their education. Students are very responsive when the professional concentrated in the same course of study as they are pursuing.
Hi David,
You stated the use of field trips and guest speakers in very clear terms. The pay off from using these methods is very positive and long lasting. Thanks for sharing for use of them.
Gary
Hi Scott,
A very powerful motivator is to see someone working in the career that you want to be in. It gives you, the student as target for your energy and focus.
Good use of these very valuable resources.
Gary
Dear Scott,
You are absolutely correct. Adults learners often possess that fear factor and as they say, "seeing is believing". The opportunities to hear from past graduates, their experiences and successes, along with their challenges, brings a bit of reality to the classroom.
For the adult learner to hear how others have become sucessful, especially when the graduate is of the same age level, really provides the hope they desperately need to hear.
We have also hired past graduates as instructors. These individuals have experienced the learning environment, worked in the field for a number of years, and then have returned to us to often give back what was once made available to them. When an instructor makes mention of this in class, it is amazing to watch the responsiveness the students show on their faces. It is like, if they can do it, then I can do it too.
David Hall
I agree 100% with this strategy to motivate students. I would also suggest when possible adding a professional guest speaker or guest professional to critique techniques/projects who is also a graduate of the program.
This is a win-win situation for all involved. The student's level of motivation does increase. Students tend to be more accepting of information the guest is presenting and more apt to ask questions because the guest speaker has gone through and successfully completed the same program they are currently enrolled in. It also give student's a chance to build their network of professional associates. So far, each time I have invited a graduate as a guest speaker they have always offered their contact information if students had questions go forward about the presentation or the guest speakers position.
The graduate guest speaker has an opportunity to not only "give back" but in some cases may find potential employees.
As Mr. Geykher points out the guest speaker reinforces and validates the information being presented in the course.
Often time's current students hear or read about success stories of graduates but never actually have the chance to meet and hear first hand the graduate's success story. The graduate guest speaker reinforces the program is solid and students have the potential to succeed from completing the program. It also reinforces the marketing of the college that utilize success stories as a component of marketing the college.
Hi Shannon,
You offer a number of excellent comments on how to use external resources to motivate students. These speakers really help to make the mental transfer for students from the classroom to the work world. This is sometimes hard for them to do and guest speakers make it "real" for them.
Gary
