Rescue EdVentures

In the dynamic world of emergency medical services, effective communication is crucial. It’s not just about understanding medical terminology; it’s also about connecting with a new generation of EMT students who speak the language of emojis and hashtags. To strike a balance between tradition and modernity, I’ve introduced a new addition to my EMT classroom – a dual-sign system that bridges the generational gap.

I have recently learned that Facebook is “uncool” and for “old” people, but this is what I grew up on so it’s been very difficult to understand the other social media platforms (still don’t get the purpose of SnapChat). And yes, I am one of those “old” people who believe you are wasting your life away watching millions of pointless videos on TikToc. Some videos truly are eduational, but many are not. Imagine what time you could get back not scrolling through a social media app! Okay, I digress…..

In my quest to keep the teaching environment inclusive and engaging (and because of a promt from my boss), I decided to create two signs side by side. The first sign is what I’d call “plain language” with common terminology that everyone can understand. The second sign, right next to it, is where things get interesting. It’s in Gen Z lingo (see the red sentence at the top of the page), complete with emojis, acronyms, and all the vibes that the younger generation thrives on.

The first sign features standard classroom “rules” that we try to model every day. It reinforces the importance of professionalism and adhering to the tried-and-true principles of the field and life. This sign provides a constant reminder of the core values that EMTs uphold: respect, teamwork, punctuality, inquisitiveness, and striving for excellence.

I’d like to add a quick note about rule #1. We do have a no swearing policy in the classroom in order to keep professionalism on the forefront. If students swear, they are expected to do ten pushups! Don’t worry, the students actually like this rule and hold each other accountable. I rarely have to step in unless my “mom ears” catch something in a side confersation 🙂

The second sign is a playful take on EMT classroom rules, bringing a touch of humor and Gen Z charm into my daily routines. Here, I’ve integrated phrases like “sus” (suspicious), “TBH” (to be honest), and “GOAT” (greatest of all time) to engage my young, tech-savvy learners. It’s about speaking their language while keeping the professionalism intact.

Why This Approach Works:

1. Engagement: The Gen Z sign adds an element of fun and intrigue to the classroom, making students feel more engaged and at ease.
2. Inclusivity: It accommodates diverse learning styles and preferences, promoting a sense of belonging among all students.
3. Memorability: Using modern lingo and visuals like emojis helps students remember the rules more effectively.
4. Life-Readiness: Understanding both traditional and contemporary communication styles prepares students for the diverse ways they’ll need to communicate on the job.

As an educator, I understand the importance of adapting to the changing times. My dual-sign approach reflects my commitment to teaching EMT students effectively, no matter which generation they belong to. The signs are a conversation starter, fostering a learning environment that values the past while embracing the future. Also, I made sure to get the stamp of approval from my current students before posting, since I didn’t really know what I was writing!

Whether you’re a seasoned EMT or a fresh face in the field, my classroom welcomes you with open arms, emojis, and the promise of lifesaving skills. Come join me on this exciting journey where “prep is the key to epic success,” and where we’re all about being “the GOAT, TBH!” 🚑💪✌️