Integrating a Lab/Lecture Course
Hi. I teach anatomy that is designed to have 2 hours of lecture in one location and then 2 hours of lab in another. I find it really difficult to keep them interested in my lecture for the full time. Lab seems easy because I have all of these activities planned that are fun. What are some suggestions to integrating the two together when they are held in separate classrooms, and keeping the lecture portion relevant and as exciting as lab time?
Ian,
Some settings are very well equipped and organized, while some classes have to use the same room for multiple purposes. I think we "work with what we got", and keeping students interested often involves coordinating and planning so that our resources are used to their maximum benefit and assistance for our students. I will demo equipment in my lecture prior to the lab time when the students will have a time of hands on. If its a small object, I'll also pass it around while lecture is occurring.
Barry Westling
In my class we do all the lecture and hands on tasks in the same room but at different times so I find during the lecture it is easier when talking about a specific subject to relate it to the what the students will be working on in the near future. It is a double edged sword though at times I have related what we are talking about to what they will be doing but now I have to keep their attention on the lecture.
Lovett,
It's great when these can be combined. Often, they are separate classes, even on separate days or at different times. Previewing, demonstrating, expounding - these are all forms of enhanced lectures or discussions that help bridge lab and lecture courses.
Barry Westling
I agree that lab and lecture courses should be together so students can have a better understanding.
Larisa,
One relatively easy approach might be to present a "preview" of the lab that will be done during the lecture portion. Just a simple demonstration that reinforces your lecture point and gives an important visual to improve the students lab experience. This also serves as brief change up in the lecture format and would probably make the discussion more interesting and memorable.
Barry Westling
