Teaching Theoretical Classes
I believe that when a class involves a tremendous amount of theory, it is very important that various examples of how the theories are applied in actual work settings should be a significant component to the lecture and class discussion. I also believe that it should be an important part of testing on the subject.
Relating theory to field application is the easiest way to keep your students interests high. Understand "WHY" is the first step to "HOW" in technical fields.
I find that starting with the very basic examples found in nature of the theory being talked about, making sure it is grasped by all. Works very well when expanding into higher levels of an alike action of a man made nature.
With anything theoretical, it is important that the instructor has enough intimate knowledge of the material to be able to summarize it into a single layman phrase or sentence. In practice I then use analogies and visual illustrations to paint a more detailed and focused picture of the theory, and then I present the summary again at the end. Seems to work.
The use of analogies, metaphors and extended metaphors seems particularly important to theory classes where the subject matter is often very abstract. I tend to try to find as many analogies as I can when teaching theories and encourage students to try to construct their own.
Hi Mark:
Great point! I also think with theory, it's important to begin by giving "the big picture" or, an example or analogy beforehand why it might be important to learn and discuss the topic. If the student understands why this theory is relevant to their study, they're likely to be a bit more engaged with the discussion.
When students have an idea where the teacher is heading, thy're bound to grasp some of the concepts more readily.
Regards, Barry
