What would happen if.
If you know the flow of your class that you have taught numerous times. What would happen if you start a new subject for the first time? I find it would be helpfull to plan learning activities that will be useful in making my students interested in the topic, fun, and engaging. These may or may not be used depending on timing of the class schedule.
Starting a new subject would also have the benefit of getting your brain to reevaluate the lesson plans of the class you have taught numerous times.
I always enjoy teaching a new subject for the first time. For example, I only recently have been teaching genetics. My background is in math, so I made sure to bring exercises on heredity and Punnett Squares for practice. I did find, however, that I needed to learn a lot of vocabulary. I think the trick is to bring your strengths into your new class, and use this as an opportunity to expand your own knowledge and skills.
Heather,
I agree. In addition, some student examples can illustrate a topic, better than some of the anologies that are provided in the textbook or lecture.
Tremayne Simpson
I find that some of the most teachable moments in class come from student questions and examples. It enables the students to present scenarios in terms that they can easily understand.
that is a really good point. losing credibility over silence is easy to do. smart point that I have not thought about to date.
Rena,
I agree. Encouraging the students to participate during lectures/discussion, definitely enhances the learning environment. During the first week of class and periodically thereafter, I make sure to provide a basic set of "ground rules", in order to avoid any potential altercations.
Tremayne Simpson
I let my students talk.I want to feel the atmosfere in the class. I ask them questions they answer and very friendly we discuss the topics that they feel themselves week in these.
jeannie,
I agree and in addition, course information must be "practical" for the adult student. In most cases, adult students bring several years of career experience to the classroom, therefore they may not feel a connection to theoretical concepts that are not tangible to "real life" situations.
Tremayne Simpson
I agree we need to make it fun for the adults to keep them on task.
Linnie,
I agree...too much "awkward silence" can negatively affect the instructor's credibility. Students can tolerate "breathing points" during a class session, however they can tell when the instructor is not properly prepared.
Tremayne Simpson
I certainly would rather be "too prepared" than having an "uncomfortable silence!"
Kevin,
What are some instructional strategies that you use, to enhance student engagement during lecture?
Tremayne Simpson
I do agree that we need to keep the students engaged with the subject being taught.
ELIZABETH,
For new instructors, it is a great idea to consult with instructors that have taught the class before. In addition, contact the publisher (of the course textbook) to request additional instructor resources. The instructor resources can provide some excellent suggestions for class activities and discussions.
Tremayne Simpson
I thought this only happened to me. There communication breakdown between me and the regular instructor. One of the instructors who had taught the class before came to my rescue and gave me resources to continue with the class.
Eventually, I was able to bring the class under control and I learned my lesson about being prepared for the unexpected.
Kathleen,
I like the idea of holding a "brainstorming" session. I also ask that students provide their suggestions for resolution, whenever they have brought forth a complaint.
Tremayne Simpson
If one student has a problem then they often see my alone but usually it is the entire class that is venting about some particular situation. I try to resolve it by having a brief brainstorming session, asking their thoughts and opinions on how to resolve the situation. That strategy works pretty well and sometimes they even realize that things are the way they are for a reason.
Kathleen,
Anytime that I feel that a student is "venting" (about other courses or instructors), I make sure to speak with them outside of the classroom or ask them to provide an email. It is important that instructors do not allow the "venting" to take place in the classroom, because it could incite additional criticism from the other students.
Tremayne Simpson
I know what you mean about allowing students to 'vent' because they are usually complaining about other classes so I get some idea of what is bothering them. If they are overwhelmed with exams, I may scedule my exam for a different day if at all possible to decrease their stree level.
