The impact of guest speakers in the science classroom

Abstract

In this investigation, guest speakers were implemented into 9th, 11th, and 12th grade science classes to determine if there would be an impact to student interest in the content area, attention to class work requirements, motivation, and future career plans. It was the hope that, in hearing real-world success stories from individuals other than their everyday teacher, they would see beyond what they perceive as limiting factors and recognize their ability to have successful futures. The findings suggest that there are multiple factors pertaining to the attributes of the presentation/presenter as well as the information shared in the presentation that may influence these student perceptions.