Carl,
I completely agree with you. Subject matter knowledge, obviously, is a must, but we must know how to effectively communicate that knowledge.
Dr. Ryan Meers
I have to agree with speaking in the same tone. I have just recently realized I was doing this! As a new instructor I have found my self creating this very boring tone that I didn't realize I was doing until a colleage pointed it out. I have been trying to "catch" myself doing this and correct it as much as I can. It was helpful having her sit in on one of my lectures to get another perspective of how I can improve.
Speaking is the most important skill. A good speaker is pleasure to listen to. They can draw you in to the lecture and make difficult concept appear easy
. Listing is important and making sure the students know that you respect their input .
Nicole,
it really is important to find that vocal balance. A good tone that is easy to listen to will really help the students stay focused.
Dr. Ryan Meers
I try to keep my voice loud enough that I am not yelling or appear to be, and not too soft. If the students can hear me well they are more apt to pay attention.
Bruce,
I like what you said here, especially the last point about making sure the students know we are here to help them succeed. This is critical as too often the students do not feel like they can approach the instructor or that they are bothering them .
Dr. Ryan Meers
Nicole,
you are right that these are great techniques to keep all of your students engaged in the lecture & in the class.
Dr. Ryan Meers
I belive it is important to interact with all students as equals. I want them all to feel important and as if they are part of the whole picture. The students want to know that you want them to succeed and are there to help them if needed.
Communication skills are important recognition of what type of verbal or nonverbal to use in the classroom setting each student present a different challenge each day
I believe being direct, with eye contact, and enthusiasm is the best way to convey your infrmation to your class of diverse individuals. I move all around the classroom with energy to keep the students involved and alert in class.
Julia,
yes to all of these. I would also add that the aspect of listening is very much needed by effective instructors.
Dr. Ryan Meers
Ellen,
you are right on that the best instruction helps students connect their current level of understanding with the new information being presented. This of course is dependent upon those strong communication skills.
Dr. Ryan Meers
I think that teaching is a "complete package" communication test - a competent teacher needs to not only know content but also know how to engage learners through the delivery of that content. Moreover, we're sometimes called upon to identify and support students who struggle not only academically but also personally. This last skill demands skillful perception, empathy and proactivity in connecting a student to the most effective resources. And all of that demands effective communication.
If I had to pick, I'd say: the ability to demonstrate passion and enthusiasm for one's subject, the ability to organize and deliver content in a way that reaches rather than puts off learners and, most important, the ability to "read" and respond to students' needs be they academic or interpersonal.
I'd agree with your assessment, H. I would add the capacity to organize and present our thoughts in a clear and orderly manner that leaves room for elaboration and discussion while also improving student retention.
this is a problem for me I work one on one in a clinic setting.I have two students that english is a second lanuage one communicates well the other is a problem. I repete myslf and always ask if he understands he says he does but once I leave and watch what he does he is in correct. It becomes frustrating. I have told him he has to stop saying he understand when he doesnt. I dont know what elce to do with this student
An instructor should be very clear in instruction and use various methods of delivery for learning styles. Most effective instruction helps the student make leaps and connections between their current knowledge and what they are currently learning. Helping a student organize all the information within the communication process makes the learning and teaching process effective as well.
Tracy,
the enthusiasm of the teacher for the subject matter & for teaching as a whole is very important to keep the class engaged.
Dr. Ryan Meers
Curran,
yes, variety in our communication is important & it is definitely true that one is not more important than another. We all have different areas of communication we need to individually work on & improve.
Dr. Ryan Meers
It is important to be clear and concise when lecturing.
I think having a variety of communication skills at one's disposal is essential. There is a time, place and function for each type of skill used in communicating. My personal favorite is to show enthusiam for the the topic being discussed.
Tracy Chesney, MSN-Ed, RN, CNE
