I think playing educational games would help students engage in learning and at the same time not bore them.
Points about different delivery methods and technologies are well-taken, and variance is crucial, but there will always be some lecture.
YOU are the delivery method in a lecture.
Employ humor, as long as it's actually funny. Lighthearted self-deprecation mixed with obvious mastery of your topic is a good combo, I have found. And be visibly excited about the material, even if it's "dry," as long as you come by that enthusiasm honestly and don't force it or make it too cheesy.
Try videotaping or at least audiotaping yourself -- it can reveal a great deal and help you improve.
Hi Matthew,
I bet you get their attention and that they listen up the next time you ask for their attention.
Gary
Hi Jennifer,
Thanks for the kind words about the module content. By your comments I know you are a dedicated and focused instructor that cares about her students. Keep the great attitude.
Gary
Hi James,
I like it. Good way to get them focused again. I am sure they start to question in their minds if they are hearing what they are hearing and then they realize they have been set up. Good laugh and the class moves on. Good strategy.
Gary
Keeping students engaged in a science class is fun! I try to mix in lots of mini-experiments that show the material rather than just me explaining it. Also, the internet is full of applicable videos to make learning more interesting!
Variety in course delivery is key. You should lecture to introduce material usually but then break the class into groups for developing the topic in greater depth or to spur debate. Computer-based learning can supplement lecture. Videos from the Internet are readily available and serve to keep attention and interest. Engage each student so that you know they are getting it.
Personally, I like to implement break-out sessions. This not only allows my students a short time out of the classroom, it also provides for a student-run approach to brainstorming and upon their return to class they are able to participate in a short presentation regarding their findings.
Real world applications!! Taking theory and showing that it actually has a real world application. Taking about viruses and bringing in a discussion of influenza to have the student able to relate to an everyday occurrence.
I usually incorporate various teaching methods during the class period. I try to use technology - PowerPoint sildes to introduce my lecture. I then like to use case studies or scenarios to present the informaiton in a business setting. This helps lead to good class discussions about the topics covered.
also...a little harsh tactic.... is to get the students involved in a conversation.... because as my boss says... education is conversations. it allows students to bring up topics and make them feel apart of the learning envir.
this is going to sound a bit harsh.... but i like to yell... not about random things, but relevant things. i never single anyone out or embarass a student, but being a chef school and being a chef... there are times in the real world where they will encounter a chef who will yell... so by going off the deep end every now and then...(constructively) it prepares them for what they will face in the work field
Variety is the spice of life! I find this to be especially true in the classroom. I recall my college days (long ago) and I remember the very boring instructors, and the very exciting instructors. With the boring instructors I recall even falling asleep in class (not good).
I use this as my reminder that I want my class sessions to be lively, participative and engaging. The key is to select appropriate material that students can relate to and apply to the “real world”. I am an instructor for human resource/organizational development courses and I believe that I have a real opportunity to help them make the connection to their own workplace. I need to bring the concepts to the level of the audience and show the relevance to helping them succeed at work. That is one key to keeping students engaged.
Additionally, I believe variety is a contributing factor to student engagement. Within the class meetings, and also in the group discussions there is opportunity for problem-solving, Q&A, and even some fun “quizzes” to keep things interesting.
I enjoyed hearing more about the case study approach in this module and I see an opportunity to incorporate that and I agreed with the idea of combination lectures being a great approach. There was some really good information in this module!
Ine of the best strategies that I have been able to utilize is keeping the course content "real and relevant." When the material is about the students' jobs, experiences, life,future occupation they tend to be more actively involved. Another effective method is when I notice some of the attentiion drifting or nodding off I will start a very serious explanation of an outlandishly ridiculous example of an application of the information. As I continue, students will find themselves trying to envision the ridiculous and then they reengage to clarify the absurd. Oddly enough this little comedic act will help them retain the intended message or information. And we have a little fun along the way.
Hi Judy,
This is a good suggestion for instructors to use. Students are great resources that instructors can use to encourage other students plus use their different life experiences to help other students to expand theirs.
Gary
Have students relate to the content with their own stories and examples instead of relying exclusively on the teacher. It is amazing how students will piggy back on one another's examples.
I too am a new teacher and find that the strategy of using different techniques does work but is so time consuming.I am putting in Sooo much time I feel as if I am working for next to nothing...
How do I think up of or find these techniques with out making 60 and 70 hour work weeks normal?
Working with adult learners - I make them work on meaningful real world assignments and then have them present their results. It's amazing the learning that can take place when the students are engage in the subject.
I really like giving the students "hands-on" application to the lecture. It helps students think through actions as well as provide a mental picture of what needs to be done with certain procedures.
Always ask questions about the topic as you progress with the class.
