Enough work for time allotted
Make sure you have extra work for the faster learners, to keep them busy. that keeps everyone busy and learning.
Hi Kari:
This is a tough subject, especially for technical lesson plans that are necessary for the student to advance to other courses.
One technique that may work well is to divide up the students into groups, and have each group research one section of the subject matter, then have each group present to the whole class.
Regards, Barry
Hi Nia:
One additional comment about the "fast learner" - it may be a good idea for instructors to use back up assignments for these individuals who tend to finish their work earlier than their classmates.
Regards, Barry
What if there is too much to cover for the time alotted? One of my favorite nursing classes I teach has an almost impossible objective/content to cover in each class period as to not get behind for the next class. Students are overwhelmed frequently and I can empathize....any suggestions?
Hi Gary:
Another consideration would be to have back up activities for students who finish before other to work on.
You are correct, there are always those that seem to learn faster and finish faster than others.
Regards, Barry
Hi Michael:
That's a good idea. Having an extra worksheet for folks to look at while classmates finish up can be an effective time saving strategy.
Some texts have clinical scenarios that can read in this fashion for the same reason.
Regards, Barry
Hi Daniel:
Timing can be tricky. Sometimes there's too much and other times not enough. Having stronger students assist you in either case is good as fellow students are usually receptive to help from their peers (what I call "student-speak").
Regards, Barry
I usually find 2 or 3 students in my classes that are ahead of the rest. I give them a couple of options. They can take on a more challenging project or work with one of the struggling students as a type of tutor. Most of the time thay prefer to help other students which creates a better atmosphere in the classroom.
This is very important, because it keeps the fast learner stimulated, while creating an environment free of stress to keep up for the students who are not progressing as quickly
on an aveage class there will be two or three students faster than the rest. I let it be know that there is more quiz's that will help sharpen the information already given! I don't force it but I don't alllow them to disrupt the rest of the class and they will ask for additional work.
