Because my classes are a truly diverse mix of individuals, it is important that I present material in a variety of ways. Through the use of PowerPoint presentations, video clips, guest speakers, reading and writing assignments, group discussions, and internet research, I am attempting to create interest in the subject matter as well as addressing a variety of learning styles.
Since students prefer to process and take in information in different ways, delivering course content using different styles will enhance their learning and retention of the material.
Because that is their learning style -- through which they pick up the most, in a shorter time, and would probably retain it longer. A style that does not suit the students, leads to reduction in their attention span.
Hi, Gary my homework and writing case studies help my students get ready for the hands on when they come to class. I love to see them take the written work and turn them into finished products in lab. I am able to reach all of my students at this point and it has being working great.
It is important to understand everyones learning styles to make sure you are reaching each student. In Career focused schools it is very important that the student understand what is expected of them and how the resources they are given are related to their field.
It is important because every student learns differently.
Hi Peggy, Thanks for your post to the forum. You are doing a good job of teaching to the learning styles! Best wishes for continued success in your teaching career. Susan
Susan Polick
Hi Kizzy, How wonderful that your school has that sort of culture! Best wishes for continued success in your teaching career. Susan
Susan Polick
I have learned that by writing and giving visual notes, verbally giving the same notes, and then doing computer work also gives them hands on experience.
Funny you should ask. Just today I had a conversation with a group of students who were a bit frustrated that a new instructor had not yet adapted to everyone's learning style. Most students have become acustomed to instructors teaching to their individual learning styles and I believe they appreciate that we do so.
Hi Deborah, Thanks for your post to the forum. Yes, students do notice and appreciate when we make the effort to get to know them and how they learn best! Best wishes for continued success in your teaching career. Susan
Susan Polick
Great analogy, Julie! Best wishes for continued success in your teaching career. Susan
Susan Polick
In most cases, Career College education is excelerated learning. Meaning, that there is a lot of information in a short amount of time. So, making sure that you have assest the way students learn and given them the tools and have prepared your delivery of the material to enhance those learning styles, you are setting them up for success. It also showes the student that you take their leaning process seriously and aren't just up in front of the class blathering on and on. You have taken a sincere interest in helping them to assimilate what can often times be very dificult and intricate information.
Information received in the way the students learns helps in their understanding and overall retention.
Imagine reading to a deaf person, they just can't learn that way. When though the reading is accompanied by pictures, reading lips, and sign language a bridge has been constructed and information can be delivered.
Hi Paul, I also like the idea of setting up diverse groups in my classroom for the same reasons that you mention. Best wishes for continued success in your teaching career. Susan
Susan Polick
For the program I am involved in the majority of the material is Hands on. It is important to realize what types of learning styles the students have and to make the lecture portion diverse enoough to encompass all of the students. I have found forming study groups which mix the different learning types together makes for a better learning experience for all. Allowing the students to show each other how each other learns brings the lesson home quicker.
Having many different learning sytles available for you class opens everyone up for learning and being able to obtain the informaion they learn. I feel by being open with your teaching strategies that it gives the student more of a chance of being successful with your course.
By supporting their learning style of the student, maximun learning can occur.
Hi Lisa, You obviously are a very caring instructor; taking the time to really get to know your students and accomodating their needs. Great work!
Susan Polick
Hi Albert, Wow - You have a lot going on in your classroom! Thanks for sharing some terrific examples of active learning.
Best wishes for continued success in your teaching career. Susan
Susan Polick
