Applying Learning Theories
In what ways have you made application of learning theories in your classes?
Justin, thank you for valuing the variety of methods for use in learning. I have not used Prezi yet, but have seen many presentations that do use it. It is a very visual too.
Michele Deck
The majority of my students are self identified visual learners, so I utilize graphic organizers with nearly every unit. Each graphic organizer corresponds to the unit's lecture material which I prefer to present through a Prezi presnetation - I like how interactive lectures can become using that program.
Recently I came across the "think-tac-toe" learning activity, where students must complete at least three content related activities that are differentiated based on learning styles. I used it for our muscular system unit, and it worked out well. Students enjoyed the autonomy and benefitted from the individualization.
I have started putting more of my course content online, and have added sections to each unit that detail resources available to students based on learning styles.
For example: related articles and case studies for logical thinkers, or online games and interactive content for visual and kinesthetic learners.
I have enjoyed this module very much. I am going to use what I have learned in my everyday lesson plans.
Nelia, it sounds like you are already using some variety in the methods you use to teach.
Michele Deck
Visuals and models are shown in Anatomy class.
Demonstration and practical skills are used in my EKG and Urinalysis class.
Lecture and explanation of a procedure with steps to follow then set up an area where the student can perform the procedure.
Mohammed, please keep up your current approach, as the teaching visuals are a powerful tool.
Michele Deck
I do my best to apply different methods of teaching combining together to help majority of the class for learning the materials, and having better outcomes,i beliveve a higher percentage of adult learners would like to see picures, slides,specialy in anatomy classes, so i use the visual methods, and combination of others.
Alison, it is a multifaceted activity you have described. I like that they photo the material used in the activity for review outside of class. What great reinforcement!
Michele Deck
I have done jeopardy as well in trying to review material. some like it, some don't. I have found videos online and some videos in the textbook reference material that I have found helpful in reviewing class material. I have used index cards with different anatomical structures or characteristics of certain anatomy or physiology and had groups put the index cards together in correct order (ex. which structures in the heart have oxygenated or deoxygenated blood; characteristics of carbohydrates, proteins, fats, etc). Students have taken pictures of the finished project to study later on.
Jennifer, it improves not only engagement but retention of content material as well. Thank you for sharing your insight.
Michele Deck
I've applied the learning theories by customizing my approach to each student. If some students need one-on-one time, I make sure to facilitate that. If I know that many students benefit from group work, I make sure to change up the assignments to leave room for group brainstorming or small competitions throughout the lesson. Taking the time to recognize each student's way of learning definitely helps the instructor in the end by improving engagement!
Pamela, Jropardy is generally a favored activity of most learners.
Michele Deck
Pamela, Jropardy is generally a favored activity of most learners.
Michele Deck
When I have taught a beginner class I realize there is a lot of information to digest in a short period of time, so I have used the game jeopardy as a tool to help them with remembering key information. Students really like this style of learning and ask for it every term.
Tanya, this is a comprehensive approach that obviously works. Keep doing it!
Michele Deck
In our dental hygiene program, we often use mneumonics and acronyms to memorize anatomical structures, procedure steps, or other concepts. We introduce these in lecture on slides, listed and color-coded (for the visual learner). Then the students take time in pairs or small groups to practice on their own. We also use models and props, when aproppriate, for the hands-on learners. Youtube videos and instructor demonstrations are used routinely as well. Then all concepts are taken from the classroom to the clinic floor, where they are applied onto patient care. With this technique variety, we attempt to engage students of all learning styles.
Tula, thank you so much for sharing your ideas with is. The demo and partnering are great experiences. I like that you ask them to listen to breath sounds with the stethoscope, as that is how it is done in practice.
Michele Deck
To ensure my students are learning the applications of what I have been teaching I use my students to aid me in demonstrating how to assess a patient. I use male students while showing them proper assessment of the chest. Then I have all of them demonstrate on a fake patient on how to do patient assessment with a partner. That way there is someone there to help them as they try to run down everything and they don't feel alone. (FYI... they are tested alone after weeks of practice)
I also have them practice breath sounds with their stethoscope while listening to speakers I have set up to deliver different types of breathe sounds through my iTunes.
