How Subject Matter Experts Add Value to Higher Education Learning

When it comes to evolving the higher education learning experience, subject matter experts can make all the difference.

An expert in their field brings invaluable knowledge and experience to the table that can't be found in textbooks or lecture slides. They provide real-world, experiential learning for students, allowing them to better comprehend and validate curriculum and apply it to their learning. What’s more, subject matter experts also provide a form of “social proof” missing from today's higher education experience.

Social proof, also called informational social influence, is a concept that indicates people are more likely to act in a way that reflects the actions of others. In other words, it’s when we look to what people are doing and practicing around us to determine how we should act. In terms of the educational experience, social proof helps bridge the gap between theory and real-world application.

Subject matter experts (SMEs) are invaluable resources in the higher education learning experience. They bring a wealth of real-world knowledge and experiential learning to the classroom setting, providing students with an opportunity to learn from someone who has first hand expertise on the subject matter. This type of instruction allows for more meaningful engagement and dialogue between student and teacher, enhancing traditional pedagogy with unique perspectives that may have otherwise been missing.

But SMEs provide something else as well–social proof. Social proof is a form of validation that helps to build trust in a particular concept or idea by showing its legitimacy through the experiences and opinions of others. In education, this takes the form of testimonials and reviews provided by subject matter experts. By hearing about the successes and failures of those who have gone before us, we gain insight into what works and what doesn’t in our own learning journey.

By bringing SMEs into classrooms, universities provide a unique opportunity to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world application. Students can use this experiential learning to gain a better understanding of their chosen field while simultaneously gaining valuable social proof that will help them succeed in their post-graduation lives. This form of instruction not only enhances the higher education learning experience but also provides students with an invaluable way to boost their resumes and build successful careers.

It's clear that subject matter experts are essential for providing an enriching higher education experience as well as preparing students for the future. But what exactly is “social proof” and how does it come into play? In short, social proof refers to the notion that if a certain action or behavior is seen as being approved by others – especially those in positions of authority – then it must be an acceptable thing to do. So when subject matter experts are brought into the classroom, they provide a form of “social proof” that what students are learning is both legitimate and valuable. This can help with motivation levels among students and inspire them to work even harder so they can make the most out of their educational opportunities.

In conclusion, incorporating subject matter experts into higher education courses not only enhances the overall learning experience but also provides invaluable social proof that what is being taught is of value. This can help to increase motivation levels among students and give them the tools they need to succeed in their post-secondary education.  Experiential learning opportunities such as these are invaluable, so if you have the chance to take advantage of one, don’t hesitate! It could be the best decision you ever make for your educational future.