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What to Expect You're going back to school! Be sure to arrive
early enough to set up your presentation. Find out in advance if you need to sign in at
the main office. Once you're in the classroom, test your equipment, be sure your props and
notes are in order, and get ready. Distribute the Engineering & You brochure
(see Product Catalog) to
explain various engineering disciplines. Following are some tips on what you can expect in
the classroom and what students and teachers will expect of you:
- Help students understand your
expectations. Suggest you will take questions throughout your presentation and state how
you will respond, i.e., "When you raise your hand, please tell me your name."
- Don't expect students to be impressed by
a title. They'll judge you by how you act and what you say.
- Show respect to the teacher and
students. Students won't respect someone who doesn't respect them. You can address your
audience as ladies and gentlemen.
- When you ask for participation, try to
encourage everybody. Work in teams and assign roles when possible. Don't appear to exclude
anyone.
- Remember that the younger the age group
the more activity you'll need to keep their attention. It is critical to show photographs,
engage students in hands-on projects, etc.
- Don't use jargon, and be sure the
information you present is at an appropriate level for the age group.
- Dress as you would for a day on the job.
Kids want the total image.
- Be enthusiastic and make the
presentation fun. Smile. It's important for these kids to know engineers are doing what
they love to do.
- Be sure to pace yourself to accomplish
your program within the time allotted (allowing time for questions and answers).
- Get students involved with the
presentation. Have student volunteers help hand out materials, hold models, etc.
- Don't be heavy-handed on a career pitch.
- Follow appropriate safety precautions
while conducting activities.
- If you plan on using a student video
provided by the National Engineers Week Committee (see the order form in your Planning Kit
or the online Product Catalog) be sure to review it in advance. It will stimulate student
questions.
Next:
Talking with Students
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