I try to use a variety of media. Powerpoint is something I enjoy for several reasons. First, it is easier to read than my handwriting. Also, since the words are already there, I don't need to be spending time writing on the board. I do use the board however, for some occasions. Sometimes, if something needs to be covered quickly, or if we just need to focus on a few big ideas, the board can be a more efficient method. Video clips are a great way to change the pace. I usually try to have a cache of short video clips on hand that are relevant to the topic that I can play after a break or a slow part of class to liven things up a bit.
Terry,
I have no idea, but I know that technology is advancing at logarthmic rates. It will continue to advance, with the hope and promise of better (or at least improved) student outcomes. Old is not bad in itself, but we need to reach the students where they are at, and there is a flood tide of techno-wizards that are a large component of the present and next generation.
Barry Westling
Terry,
PPT is a tool, so we have to avoid overusing the wrong tool, while at the same time relying on the best tool for the moment. It's said, "to a hammer, everything is a nail". We don't want to get locked in to only what we are most comfortable with.
Barry Westling
I am just wondering how many have electronic boards available for their use?
I have found that PP works the best for the course I am teaching. This helps me to impart the knowledge to the majority of the students. However, looking at a large set of PP images can be overwhelming. After every 3/4 images, I will ask questions about what we had just "learned".....sometimes asking questions in general,sometimes asking a specific student. After every 5/6 images, I will inject something not completely related to the subject matter, or something that is considered humerous about the subject content.
At the end of the presentation, I will do a quick review of the major points. I will then explain how this information will be used in our careers.
Paul,
Great. That length is not so long so as to lose attention. And if they're course specific, that should help to create interest in the reminder of the class session.
Barry Westling
Yes, I must agree with you about the videos. I use to teach a class that had hour long dvds. I usually gave a break in the middle of them. However, for the new course I'm teaching, I have a bunch of short videos,(5-15min.). They are all very topic specific, and help the students to visualize lecture material.
Paul,
Great! For me, only very topic specific video's/DVD's are ever used because I feel it's too tempting for students to be passive and/or tune out. When I do. I'll stop the DVD and make comments or ask a question, or have them reference something in their textbook. I want them active and engaged for all the time they're in the class, which is a difficult task at the least.
Barry Westling
Of course, I have the standard videos, Powerpoints and my trusty whiteboard. I have found that the videos are great for introducing a subject matter. Powerpoints on the other hand allow you concentrate, on individual sections of the material. Last but not least, I love the whiteboard for detailed explanations, and answering most questions
Gleb,
Great! Whatever we use, if its pertinent, instructional and adds to learning, I think it's worthwhile. It's nice that manaufacturers are willing to provide useful resources, especially if they are directly related to topics we are going to teach any way.
Barry Westling
I employ media supplied by the publisher supplemented by various online resources. Some product manufacturers are willing to send out such informative information as brochures, pamphlets, CDs, and DVDs.
Stephanie,
Good. With so many resources, web-links, and multimedia available, we want to make sure "just ok" is not substituted for "best and optimal". One key to doing that is to review the course objectives and stick close to them. If our testing is linked to course objectives, then we will be teaching, using resources, and testing to the objectives.
Barry Westling
I select the media by choosing what content is relevant to my topic.
Adam,
Right. This speaks to the power of visual learners (which all students are to some degree). Ultimately, all information is probably transformed to a mind visual. Finding media that reinforces the memory of, and application for needed couyrse material would be the goal.
Barry Westling
I try to find media that is usually depected graphically and in a slightly humourous way - as an IT professional, a video with a dry sense of humor can be related to, adn remembered - for the content, and the unsual video displayed. A lot of technical videos can be compared to completely non technical objects and related to by IT students
Allen,
Perhaps one way to address this is to find links or other internet references that students can do on their own time? There are so many very useful sites available, it just seems a shame that students can't be informed of these resources. Something for you to consider.
Barry Westling
Our institution has become very strict in this regaurd,and we are not allowed to add media,and only use what they give us.They want the same training to be provided to the students no matter who gives it,or what part of the country its given.
Lori,
Good point about setting the tone to seek alternative and varied resources. This demonstrates to students their teacher cares about their learning and encourages more independent thought and creativity!
Barry Westling
When selecting instructional meadia, I consider movies, websites, and PPTs to name a few. The subject matter of the course determines which media I'd use for the topic. Usually I will wrap up a course with a movie that encapsulates the topics of the course, and prepares the students for their next course.
I find that using multiple medias also tells students they have permission to seek advise from these other sources. I find some of my best resources from the tools students present in class.
Thank you,
Lori
Jon,
Today's instructors realize that their younger students are tech savvy and accustomed to lots of multimedia presentation. Even older students can think many times faster than a talking instructor, so selecting media that keeps attention is important. That said, instructors also have to be very selective in what media they choose, as there is so much out there these days, it would be possible to select a lot of variety, but if these choices miss the goal of student learning, the time and effort would be wasted. Your choices sound interesting and appropriate.
Barry Westling
