Using Marketing Methods To Reach Students

Happy New Year! I hope your winter vacation was all that you needed it to be and more! As for me, I went to the local movie theater and enjoyed escaping reality for two hours, well, really, two and a half hours because of the previews.  It hit me that movie patrons are captive to the previews and not only do they provide interest in upcoming movies, previews also include advertisements and subtle (and not so subtle) reminders about appropriate behavior within the theater.  This simple marketing method works and since students are part of the movie-going pop culture, incorporating a preview slide deck at the beginning of each class or each week will give students something comfortable and meaningful to view as they settle in for the day’s lesson.  Just think of the possibilities of converting marketing methods to the classroom!  

SLIDE DECK (Feedback, Discussion, Writing) 
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Description: Just like movie theaters use a slide deck loop as patrons enter the theater (The loop features things like movie facts, advertisements, trivia, and reminders.), the Slide Deck is used to focus, remind, and inform students as they enter the classroom.
 
Application: Use the Slide Deck in any subject as a class starter either daily or weekly depending on focus.
 
Process: Create an attention-getting slide deck of five to ten slides that will loop as students enter the class. Include slides related to the course material, but also items such as multiple-choice questions, quotes from a reading, a picture with a “What is this?” question, fill-in-the-blank statement, and/or important announcements that outline upcoming deadlines. If available, post the Slide Deck for students to use as an additional resource. 

Honeycutt, B. Three Focusing Activities to Engage Students in the First Five Minutes of Class 
www.facultyfocus.com