I have my students tell me why they choice the field they are in and let them know it is a good choice they are making so they feel that the hard work will pay off some day.
I think I will try this to talk about an event before we start the class so to make a connection with my students.
Edward,
Good strategy. It gives them time to internalize of the new content so they are ready to apply it at the next class session.
Gary
I agree you must feel comfortable with a teaching style for best performance but the ultimate goal is to have the student learn. To accomplish the learning I have had to use multiple styles even some I am very uncomfortable with but worked at the time. I also agree that preparation & enthusiasm are essential. If you are prepared, you can easily switch styles and still get the point accross.
I have noticed that by keeping the lab work lagging class presentations(overview day 1 then into the weeds day 1 & 2) by a day or so it allows time to discuss the material then actually do it by hands on. So far there has been a positive response from the majority of the students; even a couple of wow now I get its.
Alisa,
Is it possible to build some competition into the course? Like using a Jeopardy game format or Family Feud. The key is to get them involved in challenging each other in terms of a review or group problem solving activity. I know kinesiology is foundational so sometimes it isn't seen as being the most engaging but with some competition, your enthusiasm and some fun you can get them ramped up even more. I wish you much success in your efforts.
Gary
I teach Kinesiology, not exactly the easiest topic:) My approaches try to reach all demographics of learners: auditory, visual, and kinesthetic. I employ lectures, palpation, visual and matching games, as well as in class group activities for each topic. Yet I find myself struggling to convey my enthusiasm for this subject to my students. They seem to do the work simply because it has a due date attached to it, and I feel that important information is lost. I'm missing a step somewhere, and was hopeing that with help in refineing my techniques, I can make this class more engageing and applicable to the student.
Alba,
Good strategies to follow. Observing, listening and studying are good ways to expand your expertise as an educator. Keep up the good work.
Gary
I am a new instructor, obserbing other instructors in action, and asking questions is giving me some light to develop my own style.
At the beginning of each class I allow certain time to dicuss any events that seem relevant before the start of subject matter.
James,
Telling stories about your career experiences while you are sharing content is a part of your instructional style. So you are making the first steps in your developmental process. I wish you much success in your teaching career.
Gary
I am new at teaching, I came from the field of employment that I am teaching. developing a style is going to take some time. I can always tell real life stories to enhance the lesson plan and keep the students interested.
Thanks Dr. Gary
First make a good relationship with the students.Before the lecture teacher should make clear conception about the topics. To ready give the answer student's question.
I engage the students in dialogue that challenges their current beliefs and ideas. Most of my students come to school with little of no knowledge of the academic world. The idea that they are in school to get a job causes them to think of the business courses I teach, such as Ethics, as mandatory fluff. I get them to think of the "soft" skills as an essential part of their learning.
I like to make sure that we do lots of hand on activities and group exercises. My favorite activities are when we do dissection labs and role playing.
I need to get to know the students better. This will help enhance the class room setting and the students will feel more comfortable in the classroom. Also, I need to prepare more for class.
I am finding that tapping into best practices are helpful, incorporated with my personal style. Being creative and personable with my students seem to be an assest, and allows them to be comfortable and free to express their thoughts.
I agree, I teach in the same manner. The program that I instruct is extremely hands-on. I bring in all instructional styles to help reach each students learning ability.
Diane,
How do you define your instructional style?
Gary
