pratical application
A student must find a practical application to the majority of class content. This gives them and opportunity to apply what they learn to "real life"
I agree Kay, students do not just take the instructors word for it that what they are learning will be helpful in their new careers, we have to explain to them how it will be useful AND they have to see it for themselves.
I definately agree. As a high school student, I was not enthusiastic at all, and my grades reflected that. My father, a teacher, was extremely frustrated by this and did not hesitate to make me aware of it. years later, when I went to trade school, I was practically at the top of my class. This prompted him to ask; "what happened?!". My response was simply that I was better able to relate to the subjects taught in trade school because I was able to understand how they would apply in "real life". From my personal experience, this would have to be a huge motivating factor for anyone.
Hi Michael,
You story is very common for many of us, myself included. Once we realize the value and benefit of what we are learning then our focus and dedication to learning really kicks in. Thank you for sharing this example of how you were able to make sense of your education and benefit from it.
Gary
I teach in the beginning of the students learning path. I explain to them how what they are learning today will be expanded on in their next classes and then how it can be used in real life. This way I get them excited about what they are learning today, what they will learn in the future and how this knowledge will help them get ahead in thei new field.
Hi Karen,
Good job of showing them the "big picture" in terms of their future preparation and how that impacts their careers. You are right this helps to get them motivated to have a vision and be forward focused.
Gary
I agree, practical application of newly presented information helps the students to grasp the information even better. They also appreciate knowing that as an instructor, I don't just present a lecture, but rather I present an experience or a 'real life' example pertaining to the subject. They really respond in a positive way. It also helps them realize questions they have and may not have otherwise have had the opportunity to ask.
i like your thoughts on this matter but for me , i have the issue at times of trying to relate portions of the class or lab to things that many students have little to no experience with. Even the best instructors may find it to be a real challenge to relate theory and concepts to practical applications
Hi Adam,
Yes, this is a challenge that instructors face all the time. This is why they need to be on the look out whenever they are outside the classroom for application opportunities. Then they can bring these examples back to the students and share how what they are studying is relevant and has application.
Gary
I agree, everything my students are involved with applies to their trade and the skills they learn will be used on a day to day basis. I always try to give them examples of how they will use their newly formed skills when they get into the work place. I also try give them examples of failure, to paint a clearer picture of why they are doing something a specific way.
