Teaching Methods Appropriate for the Field
While this module summarized a lot of what I already know about professionalism, technical knowledge, and support and encouragement given to students, I think ultimately learning occurs if there is a goal at the end to succeed. I have been trying to come up with a variety of tools to use in the classroom in addition to lecture, such as articles, reflective writing, video clips, and of course, laboratory practicals. I often find people yawning in my class when they feel that the information is over their head, and yet, I try to say it in many different ways to make it simpler to understand. I also see that when I have enthusiasm for a particular topic and can spontaneously talk about my experiences, their eyes light up. I learned that it's good to have variety of methods and be able to motivate them.
Abbie,
Great to hear of your progress as an educator and how you have expanded your expertise. Keep up the good work.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I've been teaching for less than a year and I agree with your statement. Finding different teaching styles have helped me out a lot.
Helen,
That is right! I only have less than two years of teaching exprience. I agree with the point that you made which was trying various teaching mehtods to keep students engaged. I found out that using different teaching method such as what you have mentioned really keeps them engaged.
That makes good sense Helen.
The goal is good to have clearly, because you try and try again til success with student learning. Motivation could sum up those tries. Sometimes the students have a variety of issues affecting their concentration, so you have to in effect find them, and bring them along sometimes, but knowing where there is by foot or car is very good to practice.
I agree with your statement Helen. I find the most interest developed in the subject and best understanding of the subject being delivered when it is backed up by actual applications from experience in the field. My students have responded that it is these examples that both make the class enjoyable and valuable. it is these things that validate the information delivered as real and important to the student.
Helen,
Learners like varity and change of pace in their learning efforts. You are doing such with your strategies and this is why you are keeping them moving toward their career goals. As you mention students really relate to examples, stories from the field and instructor enthusiasm. You are delivering on all three. Great work.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
