I also agree. I teach clinical classes and Im a big hands on instructor as well and I find that alot of my students are hands on. I try and relate the hands on experiences with real world experiences so students can get a better understanding of things.
I have taught students for over 16 years now and I have learned that being well prepared is the key. Starting class on time, dressed like a professional, don't speak bad language, and speak loud enough that all students can hear you makes a good impression. Curt
I am also a new instructor and I have to say preparing and planing out the class helps me to execute my curriculum. I keep a journal/calendar of different styles I have used for my students and what works and what does not work.
I have a personal model style
I tend to run teacher-centered classes with an emphasis on demonstration and modeling. I act as a role model by demonstrating skills and processes and then as a coach in helping students develop and apply these skills and knowledge.
I am interested in encouraging student participation and adapting their presentation to include various learning styles. My students are expected to take some responsibility for learning what they need to know and for asking for help when they don't understand something.
William,
This is a good idea because it gives you a lot of insight on what the students value in an instructor. Then you can build around this input as long as your personality will support the strategies shared. For some instructors that is easier to do because their personality fits that strategy for others they will need to modify the strategy to fit their instructional style.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
On the first day of a new class, I will ask the students to recall their favorite instructor and what course it was that was taught...then I ask them to write down what it was that made them their favorite teacher. It is amazing what I get..from this I will design a teaching method that will cover the greatest number of diverse students at the same time. Of course some like to be tested to determine what they know...others like pictures..a lot of them. While others like to cover short segments and then be asked questions. Most students like to make games out of learning by using the "Jeopardy" or "Are you smarter than you 5th grader?" approach.
When I prepare my lecture I incorporate brief articles that relate to the subject. I also incorporate a lot of pictures into the power point because most of my students are visual.
I incorporate real world experience with my response in the Discussion forum.
Kate,
You are right about needing to help students see the relevance to what they are being taught plus make application of it. Your approach enables that to happen through the use of current events and changes in the field.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
I try to "engage" the students by asking them to look at news reports, the daily paper, and their own work experience and then incorporate this material into their papers and discussion board threads. When students can transfer skills and knowledge from the classroom into their daily lives I feel they benefit the most.
Paula,
What are some ways that you do your sharing with them?
Garu
Dr. Gary Meers
I will share more real world experience with my students.
I always make certain that instructions I give to students are understood well. I encourage them to give feedbacks.
Always be prepared for class or lab and come early to check-in and talk with students before starting class on time. I think the key is to be yourself and show your passion for your subject matter.
Susan,
Can you put them into groups and do case studies? I teach from 4 until 10 pm so I understand what you are experiencing. I change the flow and pace of the class frequently and get them moving to different locations in the room. Little things like this help to wake them up and get their attention back on learning.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
Holding thier attention at the end of a day is difficult for me. I have a class late afternoon and all they seem to think about is getting out for the day. I try to be interactive and interesting, but just seem to get blank looks.
Melissa,
Always have passion for your content and be motivated to share it with your students. Infuse a big dose of your personality, share a smile and be organized. With these elements in place you will be ready to go and your students will be engaged in the learning process.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
I agree. Also if the student feels that you are taking the time to get to know them on an individual basis they will see that you care about their learning experience and may be more motivated to succeed.
I think its a great way students that are shy but have a lot to give to not only the teacher but also to there peers. Communication between student, peers, and teacher is important.
Know you content. Put yourself in the place or your students. What can you do to hold their attention.
