Hi Chris,
I use a similar method that I learned from reading Stephen Covey's "The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People." Dr. Covey suggests the best way to study a chapter is to approach it as if you were going to teach it. After some lectures, I require my students to give a two or three minute oral presentation on what they thought were the most important points in the lecture.
Hi Jillian,
You are right, students really enjoy hearing our stories as they apply to the content. This is certainly a great way to ease the tension/anxiety.
Patricia
I'm a Cosmetology teacher and the students looove to hear my stories of how I made a mistake and learned from it or stories of crazy clients. It makes for a great icebreakers for a new group of students. Grabs their attention.
I find that the more variety in my teaching or delivery methods keeps me more focused and excited as well.
Hi Ileana,
Field trips are still even loved by adults. Just remember as a child how excited you were when you were going on a field trip, adults get this excitement as well. Field trips give students an opportunity to see theory put into action.
Patricia
I agree. This year I added a field trip to an organic farm for my nutrition class and then they had to turn in a reflection paper. The students enjoyed getting out of the classroom and getting another perspective for farming. I also use guest speakers which the students also appreciate.
Hi Chris,
I concur! You have to change it up, too much of the same thing does become boring.
Patricia
Hi Steven,
Debates are a good way to get everyone involved because everyone truly has an opinion.
Patricia
I feel that in the medical field it is much better to show them how to do something, hands on, rather then tell them how to do something. I have seen time and time again that the information "clicks" after they have applied their knowledge in the lab.
I always have debates over controversial subject matter. The students seem to enjoy the debates and they also learn that there are two sides to almost every issue.
Hi Chris,
When students have enjoyment while gaining knowledge, they looking forward to coming back the next day. Self satisfaction has to do with everything.
Patricia
The old saying "Variety is the spice of life" really does hold true in the teaching profession....it's a MUST !
Sometimes I'll ask a student to come up and explain he steps he/she used in order to get the correct answer. Some students love this extra attention, and the class is always tuned in. It's funny to watch a few actually mimic exactly the way I teach....we all get a laugh!
I agree...when students are engaged, even relaxed and having a good time sharing with their new friends, the odds of retention are much better!
Hi Chris,
A perfect mixture is to mix fun with learning. Students really retain more when we make it fun.
Patricia
I also love to share stories that may relate to something I'm teaching....much of the time funny and true personal experiences. Students get a chuckle and many times can relate and share their own "stories"....I think when people are in a comfortable environment, it's more fun AND perhaps easier to learn.
Hi Adrian,
Super approach! By teaching from the standpoint of hearing, seeing, and practicing, you capture all types of learners.
Patricia
I liked your response. Changing your method s of teaching always twists things up in a good way for excitement in the class. Many students like to be engaged in the lecture.
I personally like to teach on how I like to be taught. I am that type of person that needs to not only see it, but hear it and perform it. I will perform a lecture that involves all of the above to enhance what I have stated and they can leave the class session not only hearing what we had discussed, but also seeing it and practicing it.
Hi Robert,
Hands on is a practice that most students enjoy. It has been proven that most students learn best by doing. It is exciting and interesting to be able to apply what you have learned.
Patricia
I teach in the surgical technology field and I always try to tie the lecture to our hands on part of the class by setting up for a surgical procedure.
