I teach very technical subject. I find that telling real life stories/examples with a humorous slant help the students by giving them an opportunity to pause before moving on with new material while helping them to personalize the subject by learning from others experiences. We tend to remember things better that are experienced or are accompanied with an emotional element.
Paul,
Humor is a powerful learning tool. Things seem to go better after everyone has shared a laugh or light moment.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
Humor is the only way to break through the crust of the world outside the classroom. There are times when I observe my students at the beginning of class and I feel glad that I don't carry around all of the drama that they sometimes appear to. It really helps to make a separate zone for them to be in where it's OK to laugh.
Charles,
I agree. I use humor a lot in my classes to keep students relaxed and engaged throughout the class sessions.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
We deal with some very intense and deap subjects I think you have to have humor to keep the students engaged some times.
David,
As a big user of humor in my classes as well I really appreciate your comments. It is a powerful learning tool when used correctly and in relation to reinforcing the learning that is going on.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
