Finding the balance
As a new instructor, I am trying to find the balance of lecture versus hands on. I am teaching a communications course which hands on or group work would be the most beneficial. Unfortunately, I have a ton of required lecture/quizes/test that seem to come first. I feel like I could teach them more without the formal lecture but I am brand new and I don't know where to draw the line on formal information (accredited lesson plans) and actually doing. I would prefer quick lectures and then tactile. I just need to figure out how to teach them all their required info without too much lecture. This unit has me really thinking of balance.
Mike,
I wish you success with these new strategies. You are on the right track with your planning.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I'm running in to this issue too in a few of the technical, IT related courses I teach. Hands on work is what the students crave in the IT field and they really, really resist a lecture. No matter how many TED.com clips or clips of the IT Crowd I interweave in to the presentation, they all start drifting away on me. This course has given me a few things to try though!
James,
Sounds like you are using some engaging techniques with your approach. This should get the students excited about the topic being covered as well as letting them make application of the content being shared.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Right, I also teach communication and finding that balance between formal lecture and tactile learning can be difficult. I will sometimes begin lecture and integrate hands on exercises/group discussions into lecture to help break up the lecture and drive home certain points being discussed.
Lisa,
It does take some time to find that balance. Sounds like you are getting comfortable with how you need to plan out the activities for each class session. Keep up your effort to find the right blend between the two and the result will be an increase in the satisfaction level of your students.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I know how you feel - the courses I teach require a lot instruction plus a lot of hands-on application. If I don't give enough instruction or information, the students are not able to complete the practical portion, but if I focus too long on the instruction then there is no time for the practical! I'm still pretty new at this, too, and starting to really find the balance, but it has taken me some time.
AmyLyn,
Glad to hear how this unit has been of help to you. With some additional experience you will be able to find that balance so you will be able to keep your students engaged throughout the duration of your course.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
