Hi Timothy:
I like this technique a lot. I might add, is there anything wrong with asking this question of different students at random every 5 or ten minutes? Boy, talk about instant feedback!
Regards, Barry
I will ask - How can we apply what we discussed today? Usually a few studdents will give some good examples.
My real test is the next class when I start the class with a problem or situation and see if they recall the topic from the last meeting and apply it for the solution.
Hi Anna:
You are doing a fine job. In some ways, we should have to ask this question becuse if we are truely teaching, there will feedback continuously throughout the class that reinforces learning is occuring, or confirms that it is not, so more emphasis is given before proceeding.
Regards, Barry
Almost every class. And I look around the classroom not just for answers, but for facial expressions that sometimes speak louder than words. I want them to get it, that’s my job. And if they do-for me that’s a job well done.
our rotation is only 3 weeks long, at the end of the rotation I have the students give me a written sheet that gives me 3 things that they can take from the coarse and also any suggestions on how I can improve or improve the coarse. I feel it is very necessary to always seek ways to better your techniques no matter how long you have been an instuctor.
I will some times ask students if they understood what i was trying to teach
I try to make a point of doing an open discussion at least once a week of what my students have learned, and what they wish to put more time and effort into learning. That usually gives me a good foundation for my lesson plans.
Hi Anthony:
I agree that engaging students and having them reflect on their learning is a good technique. Ultimately, getting students to think independently is a outstanding accomplishment that will serve them well in their careers.
Regards, Barry
Hi Eric:
It seems like you are interested in what your students have to say. I believe no matter how long someone has taught they should be open to ongoing and continuous assessment and evaluation, and these critiques should come from students, peers and colleagues, supervisors, and even graduates.
Regards, Barry
I start each class with a short review of what was covered the class before and then a short preview about what is coming up. I do ask for their opinions and what they learned but only after a major assignment has been turned in like an essay. I like to do this so they can look at the process of writing as a whole and share their achievements and frustrations with others in the class. I praise the achievements and offer suggestions with the frustrations. I get students to give input too. I find that if students realize their not the only one struggling, they form a bond, are more willing to help each other out and hopefully, go into the next essay with not as much dread as the previous one.
Somewhere near the end of the quarter, I have students do a reflective journal on how their attitude has changed over the 12 weeks and if they learned how a class like English Comp can be beneficial to their chosen path/career.
