I have used jepordy in the past and rewarded 5 extra credit points to the winning team and 3 to the runner up. The students found this enjoyable and were very interactive.I look forward to instituting some of he ideas in this course.
I believe that lecturing and giving a PowerPoint presentation on some topics is not as effective as turning it into an activity. If the topic includes basically definitions, I find the students learn and remember more if it's done as an activity. In addition, it is more exciting and engaging then a lecture.
I find that that their attention span is longer, their test scores are higher or sometimes, students will suggest activites
I have not actually used these activities in the past, but I am definitely going to incorporate them into my classes. I think I will start with the ball toss activity in order to review at the end of class.
Lynn, give the relay race a try and I know you will see good results.
Michele Deck
I haven't used any of these particular games but use of other games such as "Jeopardy" or "Name that body part", etc., have always been met with enthusiasm by the students. In small classes, a version of Password is also fun. It is important, though, to set these up so that all students feel comfortable in participating and all get a similar reward (if one is used) at the end of the activity. I would like to try the relay race idea - it seems like one that could fit that criteria.
Patti, yes, using a variety of teaching methods in a course is the key to success.
Michele Deck
students usual enjoy activities in class. it's something different than lecture. I think the students remember the activities better than a regular lecture. Anything that is different in their minds usually stands out.
Jeffrey, using a variety of activities is the key to success.
Michele Deck
Jeffrey, I'm glad you had success with the ball toss. I hope you implement another idea from the course as well.
Michele Deck
Alan, I know you will like using football since you have had success with pother activities.
Michele Deck
Hmmmmm good idea, as sports most likely have a greater impact and drive on a male. The opposite may even be the fact and may motivate the women more. hard to tell so i am going to try a mixture of the different games.
I agree and today i implemented the ball toss and it worked very well.
I did a "jeopardy" quiz show activity and the students loved it. I love the activities suggested in this model.
In the past I have either used a form of Jeopardy or Wheel of Fortune to engage my students. Everyone likes the games and at times the competition becomes quite spirited. I find retention of the material is generally better also. I like the football game and plan to incorporate it in my next lecture topic.
Any activity like these really wake up the class and reenergize them.
Jeffrey, keeping your learners' brains engaged is an important job.
Michele Deck
Robin, I'm glad this is an activity you can use.
Michele Deck
i like using the physical activities such as ball toss. It keeps the interest and the reflexes are ready for a ball toss. So they are sharp mentally and physically
Wow... the ball toss is fun especially when I have ran out of lesson and still have time left. This also fun for a review right before the test. The students enjoyed the ball toss and I intend to play this activity more.
Thanks
Angelia, I like that learning occurs without them realizing it!
Michele Deck
