OHS communications class offers ‘authentic learning’
OCONOMOWOC — Many valuable lessons can be learned in the classroom, but there are some lessons that are best taught in a real-world setting. That’s where Seminar Digital Communications taught by Michael Krill and Danielle Bukal at Oconomowoc High School has found success.
The course offers “authentic learning,” they said, and provides college credit through the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay. The teachers decided to implement the course at OHS because they saw a need for a class that taught communication skills, which were declining among students, and also that supported the community.
The first class was held in fall 2017 and has been offered to juniors and seniors since then. Students who complete the class receive English and elective credit.
“Students often realize the true impact of our class when they enter college or enter the workforce. Many express deep gratitude for the skills and insights they gained, which have proven invaluable,” Krill and Bukal said in a joint email. “Skills such as professional etiquette, digital marketing, verbal and nonverbal communication. The best feedback comes after graduation; alumni frequently tell us that what they learned here was exactly what they needed and significantly aided their next steps in life.”
The teachers said hearing about how their class helped students achieve their goals is rewarding.
“It’s humbling to know that our efforts truly prepare them for the challenges ahead, making a lasting difference in their academic and professional journeys,” they said.
Part of the class is getting students out into the community. Students and members of the area business community will gather at Coco’s Seafood and Steakhouse in Oconomowoc on Oct. 9 and 10 to help the high schoolers develop professional dining skills in a formal environment.
Prior to the meal, students are provided their dining guest’s name and position of work, but have not had other earlier interaction. Students are also directed to take the lead on the conversation and to sway away from high school-related topics. Krill and Bukal assess students’ etiquette throughout the luncheon, ask for feedback from the guests, and reflect on the event.
John Levine, general manager and executive chef at Coco’s, said when he was approached about hosting the Seminar Digital Communications students, he thought it would be an opportunity to “lead the way for our next generation of business owners, doctors, nurses, managers, etc. It’s important to me that this young generation learns more about personal interactions and face-to-face meetings more than just talking into a phone or a computer screen.”
He said he is hoping that students learn to develop more confidence for in-person interviews and interactions that they can use to pursue their careers.
Krill and Bukal have partnered with other companies from Milwaukee to Madison, with several in Oconomowoc, including Ewald, YMCA at Pabst Farms, Shorehaven, the city of Oconomowoc, Lake Country DockHounds, Sentry Manufacturing, Lac La Belle Golf Club, and The Lounge.
“Many students stay connected to their mentors for years to come. The network they build over the course of a semester often lasts for many years to come. This has even led to college support and internship and job opportunities,” Krill and Bukal said in the email.
Going forward, Krill and Bukal hope to expand their network of local businesses for the class. The partnership can lead to accomplishments for both the students and businesses, such as impactful commercials for Ewald Chevrolet developed with the help of the students. The class has also organized community events such as Breakfast with Santa for the Okauchee Lions Club and produced a comprehensive video of the Christmas Parade for Kiwanis.
People who are interested in getting involved with the class can reach out to Michael Krill at krillm@oasd.org or Danielle Bukal at bukald@oasd.org for more information.
