Five suggestions for Having a Guest Speaker in Your Class

Bringing a guest speaker into your classroom can be very rewarding. It provides insight from another expert, broadens the subject matter, allows for a change of pace, etc.

The following suggestions will help insure a positive experience for everyone involved.

1. Identify the topic suitable for inviting a guest speaker. The presence of the speaker is to augment class material.


2. Select the speaker carefully. Invite someone who is a good presenter and can keep to the time allowed.


3. Communicate with the speaker. Provide information on how their presence fits within your curriculum, classroom accommodations, parking, etc.


4. Inform the class that there will be a guest speaker prior to the event. It allows the students to prepare questions.


5. Be the moderator. Introduce the speaker, keep the presentation on track, facilitate a question/answer discussion, and provide a closing.