I get an idea in my head for what it is I want to convey, then I try to rough outline it in a PPT. Next, I start hitting Google and Youtube looking for the craziest examples I can find. Over exaggerated is a fun place to start--- OMG ! is always a fun discussion starter-- then we can get realistic after that.
Dustin,
Sublte humor from a cartoon clip, or an exagerated characterization of an idea can do more in a single clip that many words and explanation can (think political cartoons). I think PPT is a tool, and every tool has it's specific purpose, which does not include overuse.
Barry Westling
Josiah,
Handling an object while discussing uses mutiple senses and does work to create more lasting and memorable learning experiences.
Barry Westling
Power Point is a very good tool to utilize in the class room. However having to much time dedicated to the power point can drag down the students. I like the idea of the cartoon clips that would associate with the class to help break things up.
Hands on visual aids are the best media for what I will be teaching. It will help the student to have motors and physical components they can learn on while in class
Annette,
Sometimes I have tried new and/or creative ways to present the "same-old", and found it to be so effective, that became the norm. Creative juices into action can produce remarkable results.
Barry Westling
Due to the nature of the courses I teach, I am somewhat limited in how I can present the course material. I do try to mix it up with lecture and powerpoint, so that my students don't get sick of one way.
Lauren,
When instructors use all instructional tools to assist them in their classes, they're apt to reach more students. Each tool attracts and uses a slightly different sense and incorporates more learning styles. A different "daily diet" helps keep things more fresh, interesting, and engaging for students.
Barry Westling
I use several different tools for instruction, but I prefer PowerPoint and use it the most. I actually teach computers, so I try to use all avenues of technology when teaching my classes. PowerPoint allows me to add current videos and other media for instuction purposes. As a child of technology, I prefer all things "techy" and since I'm teaching a computer course I believe it to be much more appropriate. It allows my students to see first hand the work of computers when you know and understand their capabilities and limitations. However, I do still utilize the white board, handouts, and other more basic tools for instruction.
Antonio,
Keeping topics focused on the the career area can take some planning and creative thought, but every activity that comes by it is usually welcomed by the student. Students like stories, examples, situations and class activities that relate to the general career category they're in school for. The old "what's in it for me" axiom is effective when presenting career related topics to students.
Barry Westling
My classes tend to be geared to the medical student. Many of these classes have a computer component. In the past I have used many PowerPoint and computer parts to be able to visualize the components that I am talking about during the lecture.
I once had a larger number of student that were in the Criminal Science program. I used forensic videos to illustrate how computer could assist in recreating the event. The site was forensicmedia.com I found that since I recognized the large group early in week 1, I had time to modify my presentations and gear it to their career path.
Gina,
Great. I find shorter videos actiually help keep attention better thatn lengthier videos. Passively watching without doing can lead to mental distraction and loss of focus. Preparing questions to answerd afterwards is one way to keep students focused on the information in the videos.
Barry Westling
We have been using You Tube videos for our dental hygiene program. Been working out great!
Diane,
Yes, and there's so much related material available these days, keeping things current (via websites) has never been easier to access and deliver in a classroom setting.
Barry Westling
I like to do PP lectures with web based media. Students really like this, and it tends to get them more excited in their instructional journey.
John,
I agree that the publisher supplied PPT's are really like abbreviated outlines of the chapters and really do little good to help teach new material. I feel that's what we're there for. PPT is a tool and has a specific purpose. Some tools work better in some settings than others. Mixing it up (like you describe) is much better to reach students when presenting new material.
Barry Westling
We were provided powerpoints by the developers of our text books, but it can be very boring for the students to hear a lecture that is exactly the same as their text. I take a lot of liberties with the powerpoints, adding newer material, mass media references, and personal items, so that they are in a constant state of flux. I endeavor to add additional content to each slide in order to grab student's attention. If I simply followed the powerpoint I don't think that there would be any justification for my even being there.
Wendi ,
Creative instructors find creative and fun ways to make learning meaningful and enjoyable. Cards are a good example. Written exercises, discussions (pair share and group), white board, flip chart are other common activities that actively engage students. Even using the old overhead projector (if you still have them) can be an effective substitute for PPT slides.
Barry Westling
I select the media based on the content being discussed. So often Powerpoint is the standard in todays world but I try to incorporate other media based on the topic. An example include note cards to help students with equipment identification.
Peggy,
Great. This sounds like you put time in for planning, being creative, and keeping the material fresh for your students. They should appreciate your efforts.
Barry Westling
