Volunteering to sit in an instructor's class with their permission to get ideas.
Q. What are some ways you can expand your instructional abilities?
I would like to attend more "forward looking" conventions Like National Assoc. of Broadcasters. It is very difficult to keep current let alone stay ahead of technology. Not just the gizmos themselves but the practical use of those innovations.
Hi Jenni,
First I commend you for determining what must occur in your teaching situation. If lecturing is the primary way to get the material across in the time you have then you work within that boundary. By seeking out ways to improve your expertise as a lecturer you will continue to grow and become more effective each time you teach. Keep up the great attitude and I wish you much success in your teaching.
Gary
Hi Beth,
What a great list you have shared with us. This is a comprehensive professional development plan that will help you to be a more effective instructor while enhancing your abilities to meet the needs of your students.
Gary
There are certainly effective methods to enhance lecture, but remember, not all students learn well by hearing. There are so many different learning styles and auditory learning is only one.
We do a disservice to the other learners in our classroom when we use lecture exclusively.
Not to mention that most students have an attention span of about 20 minutes. Ofter that, they are no longer paying much attention unless you are actively doing something to keep their attention.
I am a first time teacher, halfway through my first quarter and struggling with how to teach all the information I am required to teach in such a short amount of time. I feel like lecturing is the only way I can get all the information presented to my students. Doing group discussions and other interactive learning sounds appealing to me in theory but I am not sure it is reasonable. In looking back at my previous instuctors I have always enjoyed a good solid lecture that clearly outlined what I needed to know and in what order. My goal is to learn how to lecture with more energy and enthusiasm and try to incorporate some short, small group discussions as well. One way I think I can expand my instructional abilities is by learning new teaching methods and resources available to enhance lecturing.
Ways I can expand my instructional abilities..I can keep up to date on research regarding my subject matter. Take advantage of continuing education regarding subjects I teach. Stay current on visual/computer technology to assist in presentation of material to class. I can continue to put in the due deligence for class preparation and exciting ways to involved class participation
By delivering a well planned lecture, encouraging students and taking professional development courses. ~ Sandra
Hi Julien,
Right you are. Teaching is in fact life long learning because we instructors need to constantly be on the search for new material, content and methods so we can bring all of this to our students in an effective manner.
Gary
I think the best way is to reflect on how your teaching style has shown in your students abilities to learn the material you are presenting. When you are new at this you will constantly be learning so I think it's important to be very observant and open to contructive critisism.
I utilize numerous ways to improve myself. From utilizing the tools that the school provides. To learning from fellow instructors. By attending my professional association meetings I can deliver not up to date information but also inspire my students get involved as well.
I make efforts to improve myself with the technical side of instructing (use of powerpoints- ones that I have created as well as others).
I have found that observing other instructors in the classroom is one of the best ways. In addition, videotaping is another way to look back at what I have done as an instructor to determine how I can improve.
I look to my past as a previous software instructor and as a previous kindergarten/first grade private teacher to expand my instructional abilities. I bring the lessons and constructive feedback that I learned as an instructor from these past positions to assist in my growth as a learning instructor.
Understanding the mission of my college and the philosophy assists in knowing the practices and methods that work best with our students. By using standardized syllabus students have some comfort in knowing what to expect from their instructors and delivery format for most classes, depending upon their curriculum. By knowing my students various current careers/jobs, past educations, and their learning styles also assist in class delivery. Some are able to share their experiences, which add value to class, while others learn from these experiences that are shared.
Knowing different subjects do require different teaching styles, reading current articles and knowing when various changes to our laws, economic, and local government helps to keep the classes interesting and up-to-date. Having the students participate in research for topics brings a wider range of view points and choices for class discussions. This provides the students to participate and share their learning experience within a given subject. Taking the time to prepare for class, reading, understanding, and knowing the materials assist me in knowing what types of research questions to post to our students to attract their attention and share in class.
By studying other instructor’s techniques when attending or monitoring classes I am able to reflect upon the techniques that have been effective in class and incorporate some of these techniques and styles into my instructional style. Also, having peer reviews and instructor observation evaluation assist us in our growth as instructors and help us to form our instructional style.
By learning my on instructional style, I have become more comfortable in front of the classroom, taking the time to know my students, ready to learn more about the current curriculum, to better prepare to teach those in my class what I have learned and to challenge them to learn even more.
The best strategies to expand instructional strategies is by attending seminars, workshops, In-services, and continuing education.
Hi Jennifer,
You are on the right track with your thinking and planning. In spite of the subject content being dry you are thinking of ways to make it interesting and engaging. This is the sign of a dedicated professional educator and I commend you for your attitude and effort.
Gary
I think a good way I can expand my instructional abilities is to think about how past teachers I had made dry subjects more interesting. I teach a dry subject, which bores many students, but must be taught by my college's rules. I need to look for more ways to engage the students in what they're learning.
One way to expand your knowledge and instructional ability is by istening to others and ask questions. Seminars are very valuable and resourceful. In the process be true to yourself and don't doubt your abilities.
Hi Alison,
Way to go in creating an environment for enhanced learning for adult learners. By offering variety in your instructional delivery you will continue to keep your students excited and engaged.
Gary
Hi Kelly,
All very good strategies for continuing professional development. Thanks for sharing them with us.
Gary
I would get advice from other instructors who has more experience than I. Do as much on line courses to help as well.
