TIPS FOR KEEPING STUDENTS ENGAGED
Give the students options and have the students make the choice.
Ask the students to assess their own needs and come up with solutions on their own.
Ask leading questions to get the students to discover the correct answer on their own rather than giving the answer yourself.
I think those tips make a lot of sense. Too, if I notice enthusiasm lagging toward the middle of the quarter, I'll ask students to turn in an anonymous sheet with their advice on how to improve the class morale...
I agree. Providing too many options can be challenging for some students. Moreover, it can provide an environment of uncertainty and frustration for students who do not speak up. However, I can see how it can work if administered correctly.
I agree with your tips for keeping students engaged by getting them involvedm however, I sometimes feel giving them too many options creates a rift between two or more groups. I also have seen giving the student choices a bit of an insecurity in the sense that they feel a loss of control and may sometimes want to take advantage of less outspoken students.
Hi Susan,
Good to hear about your success with Discovery Learning. I am a big fan of this method because it lends itself so well to the courses I teach and really engages the students.
Gary
I learned about Discovery Learning over a year ago and I love it. The students are so much more engaged with the class and even get excited at figuring things out. It has even helped me to get more excited with teaching.
Hi Paul,
All the points you mentioned as helping to stimulate the class and get the students involved will work. You have a very good grasp of what you want to accomplish with your students for a beginning instructor.
Gary
Being a new instructor I can see where using questioning will help involve your students by getting them to think more about what is being discussed. It also will allow you to verify what level the students are comprehending. It will also lead to a more conversational atmosphere in the classroom. Leading to a more relaxed learning enviorment and making the learning more fun.
Hi Dennis,
Glad the information was of help to you. If you have any questions please let me know and I will be glad to help out. I wish you much success as a new instructor.
Gary
Im a new instructor,and Isometime struggle with this issue.Thanks for this info,Iwill give this a try to see if this helps. Thanks
Discovery learning is so critical for the students. They progress from the lab at school to the nursing floor (lab) where they seem to look for new experiences to enhance their education. I am always available and fortunate that most floor nurses are happy and willing to help the students in their learning process. They learn the meaning of teamwork and the importance of keeping track of their patients for the day and learn about specific patient needs and they always have charts available for study and case planning.
Hi Glenn,
Discovery learning is a great teaching tool. By using this method you are going to get a much higher retention rate of content with your students. They hear, learn, discover, and apply thus they remember.
Gary
