Delivering course content
I always search for different ways to deliver course content within a class. I think variety keeps my students active and attentive to subject matter. I like to include an activity that allows students to interact with each other based on the discussion in class.
Hi Linda-
Generally, I have a mobile cart (preferably 3 shelves) which is used to transport materials, etc. from the Faculty Center to class. Then classroom configuration is an important part of the equation. If possible my supplies can be stored on tables in the classroom, so they can be accessed when necessary. For the students, however, everything is prepared in advance. I call these 'study trays'. One is prepared for each study team. (This box of 'study trays' is also brought to the classroom on the cart.) A 'study tray' contains handouts, individual lab equipment, sampling etc. .... everything is 'layered' to coordinate with the lecture. When requested to do so, one student (from each team) has the responsibility to distribute the necessary information, supplies etc. from the study tray to all the students in his/her team. This not only provides efficient distribution of materials, but encourages 'team' spirit and responsibility to/for each other. For example, if a student is absent, someone in the team collects everything and helps to bring the absent student 'up to speed' usually in advance of the class, but sometimes when schedules don't coorespond, then everything is shared during breaks when that person returns to class. Hope these details help in your teaching. Thanks for writing.
-Dee
Dee
Where do you locate your material i.e. hands on, AV when teaching an introductory level course?
I always update the course content with the latest technologies and products to stimulate and encourage the students.
Hi Susan,
What have you found to be the biggest benefits of using case studies with your students/
Gary
I agree. I try to make good use of case studies in the text books. I break the class into teams and give them different topics to discuss.
Hi Vicki-
Yes, different approaches are crucial to successful content delivery. I have also found it helpful to organize the class into 'learning seqments'. I teach a 'four clock hour' class, 8:30-12:30, 1:00-5:00 etc. When approaching the lecture I organize the content into essentially four learning segments (one for each hour) which include a mix of lecture, lab/hands on, Q/A, discussion and AV, so the students are constantly exposed to diverse learning experiences within each 'learning segment'. Oh, yes, 'break' time for refreshing is also included. With this type of organization, I've had students comment on how fast the time goes, for everyone, myself included.
