The techniques that I imploy and started to use more in my instructional style is using a humerous "youtube" video at the start of class that mirrors the block of instruction for the class period. The students enjoy it and helps them look/think out side of the box on the subject.
Students always want something that is fun and informational.
To be able to develop a good, effective instructional style is to get know the learning styles of the students during the first day of class.and adjust to their needs and learning styles.
Part of my mantra as an instructor is "Learning doesn't have to be painful".
I see more lights clicking on in my students eyes when they are smiling and laughing while we are discussing the course material.
Sometimes a heart string has been hit for some of my students and they can relate material we have discussed to a life event they have either gone through or are going through at that time.
I can scan the class and see the nods of affirmation as well as the smiles of acknowledgement. That's when I call on one of the students to share why they are smiling with the rest of the class. But, only if they want to.
I do my best to establish a classroom environment that is positive and nonjudgmental.
I find that bringing real world experiences into the classroom engages students and stimulates discussion. It seems to motivate students to become more involved in the learning process. To further develop, refine and enhance my instructional style, I think I will continue to search for examples of real word sceanarios to present in the classroom.
Angela,
To more you know about them the more accurately you can target your instruction. You make a good point about the difference experiences and preferences different ages groups of students have as it relates to instructional planning.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Shelly,
The more senses you can engage the better. By doing the hands on you are helping the students to see the relevance and application of what is being taught and this increases the value of the content to them. Good strategy to employ.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
To help develop the instruction to the students I like to keep it hands on so they do not get bored and also allow them extensive amount of Q and A time along with encompassing what we are learning to what most interests them
Hi Susan. I also feel that hands on learning seems to be the most beneficial. In my field I always use the method of see one, do one, teach one.
I thing getting to know your class will give you ideas on which style works best for you and for your students. Younger students are very technically savy and enjoy learning through prezi's and powerpoints where as older students may prefer lectures and illustrating on a black board.
William,
These are all good ways to enhance your professional development and growth. This is a fun part of our education in that we get to expand our education to facilitate the education of our students.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
It is very beneficial to stay 'current' in your professional field by not only taking online CEU programs but to also attend 'live' educational seminars & CEU programs. This facilitates an ability for growth and keeps you current with standards of practice.
I enjoy doing power points and having students hands on learning it is beneficial
Robert,
Can you expand on this as these words are interesting in relation to instructional style?
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Find ways to engage with students beyond lecture, avoid PowerPoint when possible and find a story the relates to the lesson. People tend to remember stories and forget lessons.
Innovator, applier, analyzer, connector.
Kale,
I think this is a good idea because there is a certain amount of cognitive processing that goes into skill development. Your handouts will help your students to integrate both the tactile/physical and the cognitive.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I am a welding instructor so I try to use a lot of weld samples in class. Most of the students in my classes are hands on learners so they need to be able to pick up objects and inspect them. I could probably develop worksheets to go along with the samples to help the students remember what they have learned through the inspection process. This would also give me feedback on an area where the student may be having difficulty but are not asking questions.
Kellie,
Good strategy to follow. Your students will appreciate your efforts to get them engaged and enjoying their classes.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Stacy,
This is an important part of professional development. By remaining current your students know you are sharing the latest content and practices in the field.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
