Each semester, ambitious students make their first foray into college life. And each semester, these talented individuals consider: what value does college stand to offer me?
The key for educators and publishers alike is to demonstrate the value to students. In the video featured below, Cengage CEO Michael Hansen answers the question: “How does having more options improve students’ learning experience from a financial perspective?” He explains the value of seeking out learning experiences that are customized to how students learn and how you teach:
I think the cost issue is a real one and we are well-served to take it very seriously. What we have to focus on through the personalized learning experience is to make sure that these personalized solutions are more affordable to students and, at the same time, is good for us because then all the students will actually use them.
The college classroom is not a one-size-fits-all experience. Two instructors within the same college department may have different preferences, just as two students in the same classroom may have different needs. When searching for learning materials for your classroom, keep in mind that customizable content can add substantial value if students find themselves truly compelled to purchase the required materials and use them as assigned.
A more engaged student will find themselves more prepared to enter the workforce or continue their education after graduation.
Personalized learning
Educators are no strangers to developing learning outcomes for their students. You know that proven results are key. As Michael Hansen explained in the video above:
If you can’t prove effectiveness, then over time, the use of the product will go down. Because people will not keep using a product if it is not effective for them. What does effectiveness mean? There is a big debate out there. Effectiveness needs to be defined both from the perspective of the student as well as from the perspective of the faculty. And then measured against: what are the learning outcomes we want to have for the student and what kind of materials do we want them to master?
If you find the materials and methods used in your department or classroom aren’t proving as effective as you’d like, your students are counting on you to speak up for them. You know your classroom and your students the best.
For more advice on selecting materials, reach out to a helpful Cengage representative