Need advice for long classes
Hi all, sometimes our classes can go for close to two hours. Does anyone have any suggestions on how to balance instructional time with practical application?
Something as simple as the old game "Go to the Head of the Class" really breaks up the time and gets the students out of their seats and moving. Have them ask questions about what they just learner or use it as a review or even as a jumping-off point for the next part of the lecture.
I agree that four hours of any one method of teaching will shut the brain down, including the instructor's. Since I teach writing and literature for four hours at a time, I don't have a great deal of difficulty with breaking the session into different components. One advantage to a longer class for writing is that it takes away some of the stress of writing one full draft in a short period of time. I also find that some students get tired of group activities as much as others get tired of hearing lectures. Variety is the key.
I too every term have at least one class that is 5 to 6 hrs long let alone on a Friday. What I tried to do is break it up with some Lab Exercises. Of course I am teaching technology so it will be much easier. Also make sure that you take a 10 min break after each hour of lecture. On thing I tried late is too make sure I too take my 10 min break which is not to stay in the classroom. There is always some students that can keep going and keep you from taking your break. Another thing is show some video relate to the topic. Sometimes it does not have to be. Maybe something humorous to easy the time. Laughter is good soul.
I like to change the routine. I will plan hands on activities, group work, some lecture, individual meeting times, etc to move away from constant lecture. I enjoy my students not knowing what to expect from me. I want them to come to class and wonder what we will do today.
William,
these are good ideas for breaking up the long periods of class & can help engage all learners.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
Plan for some activities to break up the monotony. Also remember that activities are great for hands-on learners. Not everyone excels as an auditory learner. Even something as simple as posing a question or series of questions and breaking the class into discussion groups can be fun. The groups can report their findings to the whole class, and is something that will get the students involved and provide for a change of pace.
Johan,
yes! I try to avoid being dogmatic about most things, but here it goes: do not lecture for 4 hours, you are killing the students.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
I teach for four hours for each class, and you have to really break up the lecture from other stuff. the class tends to get bored if you lecture for 4 straight hours.
Heidi,
and look for ways to split up the time & also drink water!
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
Not to do a my dog is bigger than yours here... but rather, an I understand your pain...Ours go on 4 to 6 hours. Students want me to lecture and teach them almost the entire time. I have tried this approach and end up with throat spasms and a hoarse voice. Luckily, our faculty coach gave a great tip that I will pass along to you... that is, that we treat each hour as a separate learning session. Hope that helps.
