Planning and Preperation
As a new instructor, I often find it challenging to vary methods of instruction within the class. I constantly look for ways to introduce more interaction in the classroom. I'd love to hear some of the ideas other instructors have to increase class particpation and involvement.
i find asking questions useful too; i think it really helps getting students interest, many students seem to like the challenge the questions pose.
I like to ask a lot of questions of the students. Mainly overheads to the class and some direct questions if the student has the background then branch out from there. I also like to use informal discussions without visual aids. Just facilitate the student discussion on specific topics.
These are great suggestions. What suggestions do people have for making things more interactive in an online classroom. I teach an online IT class that teaches students about using Microsoft Office Programs. I try to introduce additional material, create discussion, poll students, etc. Anyone have any new and cool idea that they have found works really well?
I am with you regarding planning and preparation that during the first session we need to introduce or talk about the syllabus, what to expect for them to learn and what we expect from them to do, and also talking about our experience in our profession and a little of our background will motivate them to their chosing carreer. We plan and prepare interesting topics that will not bored them in the entire class.
Hi Vicki,
Take your course objectives and break them into parts that can be delivered in different ways. For example, you can develop a lecture of 15-20 minutes in length and then have a discussion. The key in instructional delivery is to offer variety to students in the flow of the class. You can assign learning groups and have students make panel presentations over content, have competitions over content using games like Jeopardy. You can incorporate downloaded videos to change the flow of content delivery as well. What you are doing with this is offering instruction in the different learning preferences of your students. Part visual, part verbal, part written word, and part tactile. All these parts make up the whole of instructional delivery.
Gary
Christopher,
What would you suggest is the best format for am effective critique? I've taught one lab class since I've been teaching and my students felt very awkward when commenting on other student's work. In many cases, they would shy away for comments for fear of offending another student. Any suggestions are appreciated.
Vicki Allen
I've found that any opportunity for students to share personal experience and talents works well. During the first session, as I'm going through the syllabus, my background, and so on, I ask questions that get them talking--the profession they're hoping to get into, their hobbies, experience, etc. I don't make a big deal of it, and I try to weave it into the conversation to keep it from sounding like I'm interrogating them. I keep those answers in mind and try to include them when the appropriate topic arises. It shows them that I see them as individuals, with unique experience and expertise of their own to offer. It also helps them grasp concepts when they are illustrated through familiar topics. I hope that makes sense...
I teach a entry level 3D Modeling class where students learn how to navigate 3d space and model 3d elements. Now in my professional experience I've found that actively pursuing feed back yields better results and expands on new ideas. So I've implemented a regular critique that requires students to present there work every week. As long as I keep the focus on whats important in a critique the classes stays on target. In the beginning students are hesitant to participate but as weeks continue participation grows and students projects greatly improve.
