Early and comprehensive planning helps to make sure that the instructor is thoroughly prepared for the class, which is a key factor in determining student success.
I use a checklist to make sure that I have all class materials/handouts etc. ready at least one day before class so that if the unexpected happens (copier doesn't work etc.), things will not get disrupted for the class.
You want to convey to the student that you are organized. Students will be less likely to take you seriously if you are "all over the place".
It is important to go into every class even ones you have taught before with a clear plan in order to make sure that the class runs smoothly and all the key points of each course are covered. The more prepared I am as an instructor the better I am able to deal with any unexpected occurance that may occur in class.
Frank,
Simple truth but powerful in application.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
You need to know where you are coming from if you want to know where you are going!
Planning early makes it so the instructor is prepared. To be fully prepared for class you have to have an understanding of all the tools you will use as well as the all the hands on. By planning early you are able to find answers that you don't have and know ahead of time what supplies you will need.
It helps you be prepared for class and also helps you be a better instuctor and gives a postive teaching experience
Lee,
Well said and to the point. I like the true the 6 P's contain.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
6 p's: Proper planning prevents persistently poor performance. Every good instructor expects the unexpected-- one way to make sure those surprises doesn't interfere with meeting instructional outcomes is to plan for everything thing we know about so our flexibility can be used for the unexpected..--A failure to plan is usually a plan for failure....
I need to be prepared for class in order to prepare my student to learn the material. I go over all material and even practice beforehand to make sure I can deliver the material correctly. Also arriving a little early to class and having an upbeat attitude is a great way to get student motivated.
I agree with planning for each class. Wouldn't be able to teach without it.
Early planning makes your class move along at a nice speed. You will know exactly what you are going to say, and also leave time for squestions. You will look very professional for the students and that is a great role model.
Teachers who are well planned are more relaxed and approachable. There is time for a bit of humor when appropriate. Planning ahead for different learning levels and pace prevents the teacher from becoming sidetracked when a problem arises. Planning a challenging question or activity for the advanced student(while working with a slower student)prevents disruption and helps maintain a higher interest level for all students.
The instructor has to be comfortable with the material to gain student respect and confidence. A variety of lectures, group activities, PowerPoints, etc. should be ready on the first day of class so that the instructor is totally prepared. I usually have two to three plans per lesson so that I don't become bored with teaching! I also have detailed sub plans for each lesson in case I have to be out unexpectedly. I have been teaching for over three decades and I still use lesson plans. They keep me focused and on task.
Martha,
Good advice and important for instructors remember as they prepare for their courses.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
For one thing comprehensive planning means less stress on the instructor. You know the blueprint, you know where you are headed and what weekly tasks will ensure their progress later on. You will know what needs the most focus.
Martha Moore
I like to be prepared early for the "just in case" situations. You never know when something will come up or you have technical difficulties. I would rather have surprise extra time than surprise problems.
The better prepared I am, the better my classes tend to be. If I am unprepared, even if the material is familiar my class won't be as good -- the presentation will be weak and the students won't learn as much. If I am prepared, the outcome is always better.
Bonnie,
I teach a 6 hour course so I understand and appreciate your comments about needing to have back up plans. They say always have a plan B, but I have found that it doesn't take much of to have you working on Plan E or F and sometimes L, meaning you can go pretty deep in plans pretty quickly.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
Planning comes in handy when the unexpected happens, for example a speaker doesn't show up or doesn't last as long as expected. Planning is also required when technology doesn't play well as it should or students really get into a lecture and time gets away or vice versa.
Planning is the key to teaching, motto: always have more than two back up plans because you never know when you will need them when you have to teach a 5 hour class.
