Mixing up the learning style
If you constantly change how you present material to your students this will keep them from becoming bored. Show a movie one day, have a group assignemnt the next class; then do a powerpoint presentation for the next class. Using different techniques keeps it interesting and caters to all different types of learning.
Hi Robin:
Being student centered rather than curriculum centered will reveal there are many ways to to reach students, approach a topic, and get the students engaged in their learning. Making class fun, enjoyable, and interesting can only help the learning cycle.
Regards, Barry
Hi Stacey:
I believe all students share some of the common traits of all learning styles. So, if an an opputunity presents itself, introducing it adds variety. But sticking to what needs to be covered is a priority as well.
Regards, Barry
I would totally agree with this. I do my best but our terms are so short and cover so much information that sometimes it is just amaizing that we get through what we have to get through.
"Mixing it up" keeps the students interested and engaged in the learning process. Every lesson taught should include at least two (preferably more) learning styles. Instructors should be diligent in addressing multiple learning styles. It is TOO EASY to fall into the trap of teaching in the learning style that the INSTRUCTOR prefers.
Hi Sharon:
You're right, and I would never disagree using a variety of instructional stuyles to inhance the learning processs. Variety really vey beneficial, and the more creative we can be, the better the student will benefit.
Regards, Barry
I agree with both you and Barry. Each person has a different learning style(s). Keeping students engaged in the classroom can be a challenge.
However, if you change up your styles of instruction, it keeps them interested and will motvate others, as well. It also helps to get to know your students and their preference in learning lecured material versus learning techniques for skills. This allows the students to be more focused on the material being presented or on the skills being performed.
Hi Susan:
Branching out of our own comfort zone and tried but true methods takes a bit of courage, and some trial and eror. But unless we are willing to take on new challenges, little progress will ever occur. As we gain confidence in trying something new, we become more competent as well. So, quite a team, competent and confident!
Regards, Barry
Hi Susan:
You've made a good point, and one that's accurate. Modifying, adjusting, or fine tuning your teaching to better fit your students shows you care about their learning, and are willing to make changesto assist them.
Regards, Barry
With adult learners it is very important to use variety in delivery. Their background and expereinces sometimes affect thier learning preference. Even instructor have a learning style and the challenge is to teach in a learning style different from the way you learn. As an instrucotr teaching in our learning style is a comfort but we must get out of the comfort zone to beable to reach each student.
I totally agree. Once I determine the different learning styles that I have in my class I quickly adotp my presentation to meet those different styles. Ensuring learning means that you teach the material in the way the student learns. Instructors must be careful not to cater to a preferred learning style because all students learn differently.
Hi LaTonya:
I call this "change-ups" like in baseball when the pitcher throws the ball differently then expected.
Blending media choices is a great idea. Have one PPT slide, then discuss it, while at the whiteboard giving more detail, then have students discuss it, and then have them elaborate on the process to the rest of the class, then do some practical application, then have them demonstrate, then, maybe preparation for a quiz, etc., etc., etc.
It's all about mixing it up and variety. This makes for memorable and meaningful learning experiences.
Regards, Barry
