I *hate* PowerPoints!
Back when I started instructing, I always have to have PPT to teach. Without them, well, I just couldn't teach.
But somewhere along the way, I learned that when I teach information technology and lean heavily into the 135 slide PowerPoints, I created a dependence on them. And it was evident, particularly when the projector stopped working.
So, I started getting away from them. I pared them down to the 5-bullet, 10 slides per 20 minutes rule as a start. Eventually, though, PowerPoints de-evolved to more trouble than they are worth for most teaching situations.
The reason: I want students to pay attention to me and my antics while I teach, rather than look on the board at my goofy slides. I found it a lot better to connect with my students if I talk to them, not just broadcast to the air.
The instructor or better yet, the student is the star of the show. Content should come from the instructor, the student, or both working together, rather than slides.
If used, I would recommend them only minimally. PowerPoints need to be scripted to keep the instructor on track - sorta like an agenda of the lecture and lecture is one of those delivery methods that should only be used to convey concepts, terms, definitions, and whatnot. There is no earthly reason why PowerPoints should take the place of lecture by having them populated with all the material in the lecture. If that's the case, why come to class - why not just read a book?
I am a big fan of Active Learning styles which really move away from lecture and go to methods where students create their own content.
I know there are instructors out there that are worried about making them better. What I would suggest is, rather than focusing on making the PPT's better, improve your own skills and then, let the students revel in your awesomeness.
And when PowerPoints become totally useless because your teaching is active, you'll save time not having to make a slide deck for every lecture.
That's just my 2¢.
James,
Great. My belief is better PPT slides are those that introduce an idea, but the instructor provides the key information. This adds interest, participation, thinking, and active involvement by the students.
Barry Westling
Great topic! I wouldn't say that I "hate power points" but It can definitely be a crutch and in the long run, I find that the power point gives a student an excuse to stop paying attention to me and my "antics". If it's all on the PP then why pay attention. I believe that I've found a balance where the PP becomes a title card to my lecture and that I am helped by the ability to add notes to my mirrored display which can help to keep my lecture on track
Rick,
I agree. Frequently I've commented that PPT is a tool, with a specific purpose and use. Using the wrong tool at the wrong time or for the wrong purpose won't achieve the desired results. And I think PPT fits this perfectly. Just because PPT exists is no reason we're reqired to use it. I think besides a slide to two to guide me through my lecture points, PPT helps well with illustrations, photo's, graphs, charts, figures, diagrams, - visual images that convey or support an idea. Other than a few other slides to help support my lecture, too much more works more to dilute my message rather than build it up.
Barry Westling
