Powerpoints
Using the power points are new to me so any success stories or examples of classroom use would be appreciated.
Eric ,
Students too really don't like long sessions with PPT slide after slide. I don't know if that's always the best way to teach a topic. I use PPT when I feel that is the best way for me as an instructor. Otherwise, if not, I'll use another method or activity that I feel is best.
Barry Westling
Making your own power points makes it easyer to relay the message. I like them but try not to use them as a crutch.
Kathy,
If an instructor is using the textbook that the slides are associated with, then any of the ancillaries the publisher supplies are acceptable use anyway the instructor wants. Slides from the publisher are copyrighted material, so as long as due credit is given there is no problem. Think of it like a quotation. You would never put a quote on a slide and not give credit to the author.
Barry Westling
I love when the textbook companies have prepared power points. However, I often find that some can be quite boring, too long, and not really layout the content in a conistent flow that is easy to teach too. The good news is that I've found most of those powerpoints are adjustable. So you can easily pull the slides you want into a new presentation and add some in to help with flow.
I would be interested to see if this is appropriate to do this as it is all copyrighted material. Thoughts?
Kathy
David:
I agree with you and I also usually use Power Points after a lecture to summarize the content of the class. Few slides, main topics about which I can ask questions to check the level of understanding.
Edric,
These are sound tips, and obviously stated from experience (which is always a great teacher)!
Barry Westling
Keep it simple with PPT slides. Don't get fancy and remember that what you see on the screen isn't necessarily going to project the same way off an LCD projector. Try and avoid dark texts against dark backgrounds. Add just enough graphics to hold the attention of your audience.
Lisa,
The best thing about PPT for me is I can add essential bullet points that provide a forum for discussion. I use a laser pointer/slide advancer device that has a "go-to-black" button that puts the screen temporarily off to allow for my discussions. Then, a quick button push, and I'm back to the slides.
Barry Westling
Powerpoints allow for great orginization. I enjoy making them and I strive to make them enjoyable along with educational for my students.
David,
Goop point. Some lessons may not lend themselves to this method, but when possible, this form of variety and detour from the form can be refreshing and enjoyable.
Barry Westling
Remember: Powerpoints only serve to enhance the educational message that you are already sharing with them. I have found that using powerpoints in the middle of my educational discussion is more effective. In this way, students have something to look forward to.
Ali,
PPT is great. As a tool, it does provide a more interesting and perhaps more engaging way to instruct. The biggest pitfall I see is overuse (abuse) of the tool. That can mean too many slides, too much information, too long of a PPT session, or poorly formatted slides. As helpful as PPT can be, it can just as distracting. Every tool has it's purpose, and the wrong tool for a job won't produce the best results.
Barry Westling
I use power point because I like technology and the choices it allows . Also I can animate words and graphics, add sound effects, include a QuickTime movie -- it's just awesome! PowerPoint captures the students' attention and helps keep them interested.
Mike,
Don't read the slides. Elaborate on the PPT slide points being made. Have students read a slide then discuss it. Be willing to shut off the slide and discuss a point, use the white board, or demonstrate a skill. Remember that PPT is only a tool. The tool is not what;'s important, it's what the tool can do. Finally, add variety to your classes. No one like a whole long session of slide after slide.
Barry Westling
