If i teach a medical law & ethics class, i usually take my students to a computer lab so they can research topics such as bioethical issues.
In classes such as Medical Terminology i give them worksheets based on the chapters and they do group work which will be overlooked by me.
In classes such as Anatomy & Physiology i give them worksheets that have the diagram of the organ system and they label them to the best of their knowledge.
Hi Mohammed:
You've described a good technique. It seems this reinforces the necessary information you want students to remember.
Regards, Barry
Everyday ending of class, I gave five minute overview what I discussed in class. Next day beging of class, I asked some questions regarding previous notes. If students don't understand anything I explain again. This is the way I get feedback my class. Makesure students take notes and make a flashcard. For instruction i saved in memory stick.
Hi Karen:
Terrific. Libraries call this the "Vertical Files", information from newpapers, magazines, publications, handouts, pamphlets, etc. It is a great way to provide more current information than that found in textbooks and related "formal resources". Great idea.
Regards, Barry
One method I use in my fashion design class is I always have an assortment of , images and current magazine / newspaper articles , and local event information related to my particular class. The articles and images are from industry related publications that most of my students are not aware of or they don't read because it is out of their comfort zone. The local event information tells them about exhibits, trunk shows , workshops etc that are throughout the city and this enhances my lessons in class as well as opens them up to new experiences. Ive gotton lots of positive comments from my students and when they see me outside of class they often ask if I know of any new "cool" events that are coming up.
Hi Leslie:
You're right about adult learners - they're definetly different from say, post HS students. Fortunately, responsible learners will have experienced the realities of work life, and with that comes conforming to expectations. This really helps when it comes to dolling out assignments. Also, as you pointed out, the diversity of experiences can often be helpful in augmenting selected topics (as you say, as long as it is on point).
Regards, Barry
Most of us are working with adult learners. They prefer two things; having some control in their learning and to receive credit/acknowledgement for previous experiences. A great technique to meet these needs and deliver the material in a different method is to call upon your learners. Ask if any one can share relative information. Guide the session but let the students bounce off one another’s stories for an impromptu discussion. All you need to do as the facilitator is to keep it on point and verify technical information as the SME.
Hi Anthony:
You've described a common occurence among instructors. Perhaps the most important component of any back up plan is that, given the circumstances of the interruption in the regularly planned activity, the student is given work that is related to their subject matter and will be relevant to their overall course topic. Most would agree that "busy work", jusrt to fill the time would not very productive, nor would dismissing early.
Regards, Barry
In our curriculum, a backup plan would be based on the availability of specialized equipment or rooms in our facility. The option to present "hands on" instruction is always preferable. However, there are times when equipment is out for repair or upgrades are scheduled, possibly another instructor or a student has a room booked at the time best suited for the class. On those occasions having some prepared handouts with accompanying PP, or projection worthy material will still provide necessary information to the students and something to study until proper access is possible.
Hi Samuel:
Good idea. We all learn from each other. Games are a great way to have the students feel they are participating and for you to feel they're engaged. Case studies work, in part, because to some degree, they are like little stories that keep the interest of most students. And if you can capture student interest, you've off to a good start!
Barry
I think I will try the work-sheets together with small groups.
I think I will try the game scenario as well as, case studies where applicable.
Hi Ivette:
Excellent! You've really hit on something when you're able to transition to a related (or different) topic and the student is unnaware of the change! Using differnt teaching methods also reinforces this effort.
Regrads, Barry
Hi Franklin:
Your ideas look great.
What many effective instructors do is compile an array of activities, or exercises, or variations to their regular lesson plan so that when things don't go as planned, they can go to their back-up folder and voila! an instant lesson perfectly tailored to the topic dujour.
Regards, Barry
I do a total review of the lesson plan and of the present group of students. I believe in developing a flexible instructional plan whereby I can apply other teaching methodologies, and the students do not notice the change. It is always important to keep the door open for other options reflecting the group's dynamic. I also share this information with the other instructors who may have this group of students in future courses.
i usually reset, look back to what worked and try t do more of that....
Doug:
You're right that a little variety can keep a class interesting and topical. Of course, the key lesson points have to be delivered. So as long as you're assured that the learning outcomes will be met, adding some variety can positively contribute to an improved learning atmosphere.
Regards, Barry
I run with the mood of the class sometimes. This tunes the lesson plan to their needs and makes things interesting for them.
Mustafijur:
I think this is a terrific idea. Not having to recreate the wheel can save a lot of time. And I think there are notes that pertain to one class that might not be used in another. But when you need some variety or the planned lesson has to be delayed, referring to your old notes can be a life saver.
Regards, Barry
I save all notes and lectures for next class.
