Why Do We Have To Learn This?: Preparing Students for the Future Workforce | IEW2024

Help students see the real-world relevance of their studies and develop skills for future careers in this practical session led by Suzanne Gut, an experienced educator in English, TESOL, and Communications. Join us on November 21 at 19:00 Moscow time to explore ways to connect academic content to workforce expectations, soft skills, and interdisciplinary knowledge. This event is held as part of International Education Week. In this presentation, we’ll be discussing how to help students answer the question, “Why do we have to learn this anyway?“ It is a valid question that students often cannot answer on their own as their work experience is limited at young ages (18-23). Participants will explore ways to help students see the relevance of academic subject matter and expectations on their future workforce development. We will discuss interdisciplinary connections, workforce expectations, soft skills, and a growth mindset to prepare students for their future careers. Who is it for: Any teachers. However, this workshop is particularly relevant for undergraduate instructors as their students will be in the workforce sooner rather than later. Speaker: Suzanne Gut has been working with international students and colleagues throughout her 30 year academic career in English, TESOL, Communications, and Linguistics. She has served as department chair, professor, adjunct, mentor, advisor, study abroad director, tutor, presenter, and co-author. She holds a BA in English with a minor in writing, an MS in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL), and is currently ABD in Rhetoric and Composition studies with a concentration in Linguistics and New Media. Her research focuses on computer-mediated communication, interpersonal communication, and discourse analysis. Currently, she is a full-time grant writer and proposal manager. “My goal has always been to give people the tools and sharpen the skills they need to be successful and communicate effectively and efficiently.” International Education Week (IEW) is a celebration of global learning and cultural exchange, designed to expand horizons and foster connections across borders. Held from November 18-22, IEW will feature a diverse array of events, including lectures, workshops, and interactive sessions, where educators and students alike can explore the future of education and innovation.