simple demonstrations can bridge the gap
I am a biology instructor on a low budget but I have found that the simplest experiments can make as much of an impact on student learning and engagement as a large and involved experiment. Even things like observing diffusion in a cup or dropping water onto wax paper and adding soap is a great way to revisit everyday experiences in light of what they have just learned.
Hi Shellie:
A good example and demonstration that when students can experience, or visualize, or physically manipulate what is diiferent, they are going to remember better. And, like you, if one can make it fun, all the better.
Regards, Barry
I had a great experience with demonstrations in my Textiles class. There was so much scientific information that I could tell I was loosing my students. I tried everything to keep them excited but they just could not grasp how textiles mattered to them. So, one day I set up four stations. A crochet station with cotton yarn and crochet needles. An embroidery station with wooden frames, cotton dishtowels and acrylic embroidery thread. A cross stitch station with canvas and acrylics yarns. Lastly, a sewing station with pillow inserts and varying fabric choices. These opportunities made such a huge impact that I still hear good things from it.
Hi Heidi:
Simple works and sometimes is better understood by students because of that. I try to understand my lectures and emonstartions from the point of view of the student: we'll they understand, is this the best way to approach this topic, are there alternative resources, etc.
Gaps are created when a difference between the teachers instruction and students cimprehension exists. So, how can we best diminish that difference?
Regards, Barry
