Why do students do better when they, see do and hear?
When teach, I have found that if I use PowerPoint presentations along with class discussion and fill in the blank notes the student do better on their quiz. The class test scores have increased by 30% do to interaction by the students.
Dear Kim-
I think that you make a valid point. However, part of the process of educating is helping learners to attain and make use of various strategies for processing information. Perhaps there will be little variation in the manner of recieving work from the employer. But there may be various ways that the employee can effectively respond to the work- some may use colored folders to organize tasks. Some people will organize their workspace in a way that allows them to "feel" items as a means to remembering what needs to be done or to whom an assignment needs to be delivered. Teaching someone how to order and control their world is critical to the success they will pursue in their career.
I try hard to implement the different learning skills in my class, but tend to lecture and give instructions verbally. I'm trying to prepare my paralegal students to hone in on their listening skills because in the work force, employers don't provide you samples or draw on boards. Most give you a project as they are walking past your desk.
Hitting on all 3 learning styles in class every day is really important.
If I can engage the visual learners with models to look at, auditory learners with information to hear, and kinesthetic learners with hands-on activities, I am engaging all students.
This is why I like to "change things up" during class: do some lecture, some Powerpoint, and some hands-on activities.
I'm glad to hear that PowerPoint works in the school environment. PowerPoint presentations have been much maligned in the business world, but I think it is because they may be over-utilized, and can lead to boring presentations. They have also been used as crutches by unengaging presenters.
I have refrained from using PowerPoints in my classroom (I've only taught three sessions so far!), but in the interest of keeping students engaged, I'll begin to strategically add them.
Patricia,
I agree, when it comes to teachin g we as instructors must reach to all learning styles.
Hi James,
PowerPoint are great visuals, students appreciate PowerPoint presentations, by using PowerPoint presentations you capture the auditory and visual learners.
Patricia
