Planning
Sometimes when I am doing my lesson plans, I get overwhelmed with the amount of information and how to pick out what is the most important information students need to know.
Recently I try to ask myself, could the student use this information in their person and/or personal life. If so, I include it. I have found this helps some. Any other ideas?
Sonya,
This is a good feeling isn't it? You are in the "zone" when you are able to answer questions in such a way. It keeps the class flowing and moving forward.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
Dr. Meers,
I find that to be true as well. I have also found that the lesson is a result of a series of question that I have asked myself and then decided to include the answers in the lesson. It is almost like being in tune enough will your class to be able to think of questions they may have before they ask. Sometimes I may not get through the lecture but a student will ask a question and then I can skip forward and answer the question with ease. Being able to do that breeds confidence for sure.
Sonya,
In addition, to the outcomes you mention in your forum comments I have found that with the extra material I have a higher level of confidence in my teaching effort. The reason is that I know I have more than enough material to fill the time I have. Thus, no matter which direction the course goes that day I have material ready to go.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
Dr Meers,
I agree with your comment. I try to plan to have more than enough material just in case I have extra time. I usually highlight material that is nice to know and give great detail on the essential material. If I really think the student will enjoy the nice to know information, I may give it to them in a handout or posted it on the student portal for them to access the information.
Mary,
You are on the right track with your method. Critical content is the core of the course. Identify exactly what that is and then make sure it is covered. If there is extra time you then can cover the additional or nice to know content. It is a expansion process from the essential to the nice to know.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
