questioning in a hands on environment
as a culinary instructor i find was to question my students invividually while providing hands on guidance through a process. if they get stuck at a step, it provides me a great opportunity to review the previous steps and lead them to an appropriate outcome while gaging thier comprehension... in a one on one setting i can easily see gaps in thier knowledge and ask the right questions to lead them to formulate thier own answers, prodivng praise and reinforcement when necessary. this one on one time gives them a sense of feeling special and gently pushes them to grow on their own as well as in the lab class settings.
Virginia ,
I have seen questioning work very well during handss on learning. You ask about every step and you may be surprised at how much students know and what they can offer.
Judy Mohammed
I have never thought to question while doing hands on but I like the idea. I thought it would be distracting to them while during a procedure but now I would like to try it. It would give me that chance to see if they truly know the "whys" behind what they are doing. Plus it will make them aware of distractions that may occur while working.
Mark,
Using questions as a form of delivery is a great way to make a class interactive and, once that environment is set, students feel more at ease to ask their own questions.
Judy Mohammed
Great point Mr. Wolfe. Keeping students on edge and engaged during class with questioning helps them retain information. But real world, if the they don't ask their own questions the info doesn't stick with them.
Douglas,
Great job! I also start out on the first day by telling my students that my class is interactive and I give points for participation. I plan questions into my lectures and even during demonstrations, asking why things are done in certain ways, why is it necessary to complete one step before the other, how can this be done in another way, etc. I use questions all the time and I do not feel that I ask too many, it leads to critical thinking.
Judy Mohammed
I also teach at an automotive school. I found it hard to get students to participate in class and lab answering question. Is it me? Could it be a generation thing? How I ask the questions? A combination of the above? Do I ask to many questions?
When I started nine years ago I was taught not to ask direct questions. Never ever put a student on the spot. When I asked group questions only a few, if any, of my students would participate. I was frustrated, and could only judge my effectiveness as a teacher by test scores and evals. So I tried a different approch. From day one in my class I make it clear to my students that their education is their responsibility, and it only becomes mine when they ask me questions. I let them know that I can't read their minds: I don't know what they want to learn, what they are struggling with and without their input I can not help them. If they want to be treated like adults they need to act like adults. I let them know that I'm available, approachable and if I can't help them I'll find someone who can. I works for me.
OK how'd I do? Any questions?
Dave,
Questioning in a hands-on environment is a great way to review. While demonstrating you can ask, "So what is the next step?" or "Why do we perform this specific task." It encourages discussion and allows you to know that the students have interpreted your communication well or it may let you know that they need further training.
Judy Mohammed
I too am an auto instructor. Our students are hands on learners, visual learners as well as listening learners. We also have a wide range when it comes to age (especially in today’s economic climate) from 18 to 60 years. Another spice in the mix is that when the students come to us they are of different experience levels. Some already have automotive knowledge; may even be working in the field. Some just decided they wanted to take up an automotive career weeks before they sign up for classes. Regrettably in our industry you must use all three methods to advance in our field. Using only one learning technique will significantly inhibit someone wanting to become a professional automotive technician. Using questioning techniques during hands on sessions is fantastic for this type of environment. It not only gets you one on one with the student it also lets you target your question towards that particular individuals level of understanding.
David,
Glad to hear! I am constantly seeking methods to improve classroom instruction.
Judy Mohammed
As an automotive instructor, the education level of some of the students usually does not include any post high school education. The questioning techniques that I have learned in the 114 course, have made an immediate impact in my classroom. The students are hands on and with this type of student, walls can come up very rapidly and they become defensive right away.Proper questioning tactics help me immediately with the class enviornment.
Renee,
This is a great tool to review for others as well. I use open ended questions all the time since this allows the students to think through the process. It's a great way to provide gentle nudges for incorporating material.
Judy Mohammed
