attention spans of adult
proper styles of teaching could solve this problem... for me it is important to assess students and make ways for them to learn more
i teach culinary arts and although i believe it is easier than academics we also have a population with more add tendancies.
It good to know that attention span is aroun 15-18 minutes and 5-7 instruction steps.
I use those facts to break up my demos in several short mini-demos and students go do that before seeing the next demo for the next steps.
let's say breaking a layered cake in several mini-demos and student get to production for each component:
- making the cake
- making the frosting
- assembly
- decoration/finishings
It is also easier for them to manage their time and meet our expectations with several components which may take 20 minutes each instead of an overall goal of 1h20min .
As a relatively new instructor I was shocked to learn of the attention span limit that most humans have. Do any of you have any developmental devices to get students who are lacking in this capacity, up to par? Anything other than the mini 10-18 minute lecture break ups.
Hi Lyana,
This is the same approach I use and with great results. It is good to hear other instructors, like yourself are using the small group approach to help get the students back on track. My students really like the chance to talk among themselves and then come up with synthesized thought. They think it helps them internalize the content better.
Gary
When I get a sense that the class is losing focus oftentimes I will break them up into smaller groups so they can discuss different aspects of a chapter. They get a break from listening to me, and I'll go around and answer any questions that may come up. Then we come back together and synthesize what the groups discussed.
My experience has been that you need to mix up your class so students are not just sitting. I teach math which can be intimidating to students. When I see the glazed looks or know the lecture is getting long I will have the students work on problems in groups or take a break to let everyone change their focus for a bit. I like the idea of mini-lectures because they take advantage of the attention spans.
Hi Ronata,
This a sound approach. The key is variety. By giving them specific content in the 15-20 time frame you then can have discussion, small group, case studies, etc. to reinforce what has just been covered. This way the students will stay engaged and start to see application of the content that has just been covered.
Gary
I was shocked to hear of the attention span of adults. As a new instructor I was wondering if it was appropriate to hit on some of the more important topics of a particular lesson in that first 15-18 minutes, and then elaborate on them more as the time in the class progresses. Would this be a better way to catch their attention .
I have a class right now that has all of the different learning styles in it and also a varying level of understanding of material. I tend to mix things up for all classes and utilize all type of teaching style to keep the attention and to reach all students
Hi Shawn,
There are a number of methods you can use. Case studies and problem solving are two methods that get the adult students involved in the learning process quickly. They get to use the life experiences they are bringing to the class and that helps to build their confidence. Using learning groups where 3-4 people work together to complete a project or solve a problem is another effective strategy. The key is to vary the instructional delivery methods. Lecture for 15-20 minutes then have an activity to reinforce what has been covered. This helps to keep the students engaged and excited about what they are learning.
If you have any questions or want to talk more about learning strategies please let me know.
Gary
What are some of the different stles of instruction that could help keed the attention spans of adults?
