Effective Lectures
It is really importan for an instructor to have a good working knowledge of the topic being discussed. As I observed in my experience, the students will gauge the instructor, speaker or lecturer on how deep their knowledge in the subject metter before they start to listen and become receptive to the information given. I liked the way you presented this course and it helped me a lot. Thanks.
I agree with your methods. Proximity is a great way to manage the classroom as well. A simple walk up and down the aisle before beginning class lets everyone know something is about to begin and they quiet down. Silence from the instructor also helps me manage chatter without making a big deal out of it.
The use of the white board is essential and underutilized in my opinion. And the smart board is great for these tech driven students of today. They are interested in learning in the newest fashion. I agree it takes more time to write; however, this is why I choose to use several mediums rather than using one. I also teach online and therefore I must stay tech savvy. Great job Jodie for making use of all the tools of our trade.
I feel that it is necessary to review the contenet of the lecture before presenting it
Wendy,
I like your idea of sitting with the students, though like Gary I wouldn't do it all the time, so as not to fuzz the professional line.
When I lecture, I don't even like to call it that, I always see it as discussion because I like the learn by questioning method. Anyway, I have found that standing in front of the class really gets their attention, but the key is to move around--never stay in one spot too long.
I like to write all their suggestions on the board because it demonstrates to them how they are learning, their stake in the subject, and covers the lessons content as you put your own thoughts on the board as well.
I am a big fan of writing on the board. And now with all this new technogloy, like smart boards, I have to write slower because it can keep up with me. What are yours or others thoughts on using smart boards for class discussion?
I find it helpful to give additional informational handouts and use visual aid when i can in order to really make the information concrete to the student. I try and make it fun and interesting so that i keep the students attention
Thank you very much for the reply. I will try what you had mentioned and see if it helps. Right now I use family and friends to be my critic's for my class presentation.
Hi Joseph,
First you have to remain true to your personality. If you are not that expressive in your delivery you can work on that but you can only be who you are. Take one of your career experiences that is interesting, humorous, dramatic, or all the above. The practice telling about the experience in front of the mirror. Look for ways to use gestures, facial expressions and voice volume. The reason for using one of your own life experiences is that you know the story (you live it) so you can concentrate on your delivery without have to try and remember the content as well. I am sure you will find the students enjoy the story and your delivery. Then you can move to lecture content and jazz it up with exciting deliveries and it won't be long before you are "out of your shell" and engaging your students in your world of teaching.
Gary
Hi,
I am new to teaching and I was wondering if there were any tips that you could share that would allow me to break out of "my shell"? I have observed other instructors that were so animated and engaging, the class was theirs the entire time. What skills or techniques could I use or perfect that would allow me to become the same way?
Hi Wendy,
When you are standing and delivering course content your students see you more as an instructor. This is why it is good to stand while lecturing. There is a different kind of student perception when an instructor is sitting. When you sit down you are showing your students you are in a discussing or sharing format. Your perception that they become more engaged when you are sitting down because they see you as a part of the group ready to interact with them.
So when you stand they know you are going to share course content and when you sit you are going to discuss the content and respond to their questions.
Good format, keep it up.
Gary
My classes are typically small (5-9 students) and there are periods during group discussions when I will sit with them at their table as opposed to directing from the front of the room. I feel like they become more engaged with the topic when I am at their level. What has your experience shown you about this topic?
Hi Ferdinand,
Thank you for the kind words, they are appreciated. Professional development helps us all to be more effective in our teaching and student connections.
Gary
