I agree completely. I hunt down articles, videos or other related materials to show to my students to help them understand that what they are learning is relevant to the world and their field of study today.
I ask my colleagues teaching the same subject to see my class and give me feedback, this always help to improve mistakes or to enhance skillls, techniques you are doing great.
And surveys are good tools to improve the instructional style.
I agree. My style is centered on showing my students that what they are learning is applicable in the real world. I want the subject matter to stir they brain matter - make them think about the world they live in and their part in it. Also, I agree with encouraging my students by constantly telling them "you CAN do this!"
I feel that it is important to read current articles in regards to the topics that you are teaching. In addition,have students study current events in the subject matter. Also, discussing current events is very important so that students can be industry current.
Hi Joe,
Good point. Sometimes the truth can sting a bit but we can always benefit from knowing it. This will helps us to increase our skills as educators and be more effective in our instruction.
Gary
I enjoy instant feedback by asking if we are "good" with that information and can you repeat it back to me? Although be ready for the truth!!!
I regularly record (both video and audio) myself teaching. Even just listening to the audio can help me to hear my voice and presentation style through the ears of my students.
Watching a recording of yourself really allows you to confirm what you are doing well and identify areas for improvement.
Hi Don,
I like this method as well. It helps to make it more real for the students as they get to see examples of what they are learning.
Gary
Hi Jovita,
Welcome to the teaching profession. I wish you much success in all your efforts. Your attitude about wanting to learn and expand your expertise as an educator is great. Keep your eyes open to new ways you can present your course content. Keep your ears open and listen for ways you can meet the needs of your students and you will develop your abilities as an educator very quickly.
Gary
Hi Rochele,
Like your style. I am sure your students enjoy your excitement and enthusiasm. We do have great jobs don't we? We get to talk about and work in our field while educating others about it. We get to impact lives and leave a legacy. What's not to love?
Gary
I absolutely agree that you have to show the students you are interested in what they are ultimately trying to accomplish.
On the first day of class I ask my students what they most want to get out of this course? A few weeks into the course, I ask the class to evaluate me as an Instructor. I then add to or take away from my teaching style, depending what response I receive from my students.
Steph
I like this idea and have tried it in various classes. Viewing a video example or showing and discussing current professional work changes the pace and helps students 'see' the material being presented in another way/a different point-of-view, perhaps.
This past term I taught a creative/technical course on the professional use of Photoshop software to enhance digital images. I decided to atted live workshops in my geographic area offered by Adobe's professionals on the use of Photoshop. I received excellent workshop tips and skills on how to use the software program AND I also was able to pick up instructional style tips LIVE from various professionals I had seen on tutorial videos. It was very worthwhile.
I am a new instructor and this will be my first semester teaching. One of the ways that I will develop, refine and enhance my instructional style is by being a good listener. I will listen to students verbal and non verbal communication. I am a teacher and not an expert. I am also learning and will continue to learn from other associates, students and my enviroment.
One thing I like to do is to think back when I was a student. As everyone else, I had good instructors and not-so-good instructors. My instructional style is based on doing the things inspiring instructors did and avoiding the pitfalls of those who didn't have "teaching" in their heart. We learn by example and students soak-up whatever the instructor at the front of the class is handing out. Students can see/feel how committed an instructor is. I also try to make them realize that this "class" is just an extension of their careers. I like to think of myself as their first employer. Forgetting their project at work means they don't get paid. At the office client don't want to hear excuses. No results, no work. It's that simple. The earlier a student grasps this concept, the sooner they will focus on the task at hand.
I try to get the students involved in evaluating each other. Also, I try to break up lectures with periods of physical activity.
I am allergic to being bored... it doesn't matter what subject we teach we can find ways to deliver the information in a colorful way.... get up move around... add humor... play games... draw pictures... change your voice... connect with the students...and they will connect with you! I love this Job!
Goals are great especially when documentation is necessary for the ACICS process at many institutions.
Yes, this is a great tool. Learning what the student understands is an effective measure of instructional effectiveness.
