I was recently asked to compile a list of top tips for EMS educators. This is the list I came up with:
1. Listen to the EMSEduCast a podcast by and for EMS educators. Each week the co-hosts Greg Friese, Buck Feris, and Rob Theriault discuss education issues, resources, and solutions with guest experts. Listen to the archives, new episodes or subscribe at http://emseducast.com.
2. Help EMT and Paramedic students prepare for class by facilitating their understanding of their own learning style, time management skills, and study and test taking skills. Encourage new students to participate in the free EMS Boot Camp session on preparing for EMT school. http://emsbootcamp.com.
3. Join the National Association of EMS Educators to network with other EMS educators. The annual NAEMSE symposium is a great conference for learning and socializing with other educators. Learn more and join at http://naemse.org.
4. Facilitate learning activities for students that use social media and social networking tools like producing videos and podcasts that demonstrate patient assessment and treatment skills. Post student videos to YouTube or ParamedicTV.com to be an ongoing learning and teaching resource. Once posted videos can be embedded in your class blog.
5. Continue to learn and improve your skills by reading professional publications, peer reviewed journals, and blogs written by other EMS educators. Every month I read EMS Magazine and JEMS Magazine.
