Get Your Students Hired
I feel that finding something in common with each student lays the groundwork for a relationship where you as the instructor become more approachable. Students may be more likely to come to you with problems or concerns if they aren't intimidated.
I agree. Students are motivated when the instructor is actively involved and making an effort to get to know each student. It often helps to make some references to current pop-culture with students, and for international students to find out about their cities and anything that may relate to the class. Students are especially excited if you bring in materials that specifically relate to their career goals.
And,of course, humor always helps to lighten the mood in the morning; or, late in the afternoon. Simply taking a breather from intense topics really allows students to soak in the materials.
Andrea,
yes, when we are passionate about our subject matter this communicates loudly to our students & they will be more interested in what we have to say.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
Because the students in my classes are there to learn what they need to know to get into the field that I'm in, I know that we will have some interests in common even though our backgrounds might be very different. For me it is all about passion. I love what I do in the design field and I love learning new things. I feel that if I can share that passion with students and connect with them on some level with one of their interests then we have the basis of an interesting and productive relationship throughout the current class and hopefully beyond!
michael,
this is a great point & we really do need to start right off the bat with building those relationships so we can build those bridges & like you said help motivate the students for the future.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
So true, Jana!
Teaching animation and game design is such joy for me because of mine, and my students' love, of the two mediums. In addition, I am a part of the comic book industry outside of the classroom.
Throughout the class period, we have a "class geek-out" moment where we may discuss or, in some cases, get into little debates on the latest Avengers film of the newest iteration of Assassin's Creed. These "geek-out" sessions let the students know that I am just as passionate about the subject I'm teaching as they are.
I think it is very important to build a connection with student first day of class. I use humor to break the ice since we are meeting for the first time to set the tone for the class. Also motivate students to see their future career opportunities and encourage them to be engage in their course of study.
I find that informally talking about outside interests at the beginning of class, such as music or sports, helps break the ice, create a bond, and get the student's attention all at the same time.
Jana,
this is a great point. When we try to meet our students where they are, then we can connect with them so much better on many issues.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.