Knowledge of Course Related Material
On the first day of class, I ask each student how much they know of or their experience with the subject matter. It helps to know where they are coming from. I also encourage students with prior knowledge or experience to tutor other students who are studying the subject for the first time.
Hi Erin:
You are describing an ongoing issue with "non-linear" course content. Most traditional programs have pre-requisites for courses to prevent the very issue you are describing.
I think the idea you've come up with (pairing) is the best option.
Regards, Barry
i agree with nacy this is very important to establish a class baseline.
I have two issues: First, some of my students have had a class in my subject matter before and some haven't, which isn't that bad. I am considering using the ones who HAVE had the class to help tutor the others. BUT... also, sometimes I am the student's first class and other times I am not. What do I do if some students haven't even had English yet but I am requiring them to write a paper? I feel that I have to catch the students up on holes in the curriculum.
The class I teach is the first class the students get- so I get to mold them!
After the intruction to the school, rules, class, etc, etc, etc- I let them know about my self, my experience and my love for the industry and for teaching. This usually lights up their face, and motivates them. After this, I give each student to introduce themself and talk a little about if they have had any industry experierce or personal experience. This makes them feel important- and also allows me to make a mental note of who has done what.
During the class- as I give as many "real life" examples as possible- I always ask if any one has any experience with the topic, and allow them to share.
I also make sure the students understand the difference between "textbook" and "realworld".
(I teach Food Safety and Sanitation)
Hi Barbara:
Usually the reason a teacher is assigned to a particular course is because they offer some advatange other than availabilty, such as expertise, experience, prior successfulness in teaching the class, or dealing with special need students.
I agree the best teachers I've had were the ones that I felt really "knew their stuff", could answer questions while seamlessly moving on in their prepared lesson, and made the material interesting and enjoyable. It would be nice to think all classes were this way, but I understand in many cases that may not be the case.
Regards, Barry
Knowledge on the part of students is a major factor in successful presentation of class materials.
More importantly, is "Is the instructor teaching the course knowledgeable in the subject."
Sometimes there is a mismatch.
Instructors need to stay ahead of the students in reviewing materials, working through practical applications, and being able to answer "off-the-cuff" questions presented by students.
A sound knowledge base allows for more creativity and critical thinking in the class.
