I love to hear what the students have researched on thier own and then share that information with the class. Class participation with research and shared experiences makes the class more interesting.
Sherri,
This is a method I use a lot in my classes and it is really effective. Try it out. I know you are going to like the results.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
I consider myself to be a great teacher, however I would like to improve when it comes to group learning. I have observed other instructors breaking their students into groups and having them learn from each other in a structured setting. I would like to be able to do that as well.
Jenny,
After many years of teaching I still sit in on classes for the reasons you state. It is fun to observe, learn and benefit from watching others teach.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
Daniel,
This makes your own learning fun doesn't it? You get to see how others approach teaching which expands your own knowledge base.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
Each class should a performance, a reflection of the instructor's ability to motivate, challenge, and transfer knowledge.
The techniques to incorporate in my instructional style is differentiated instruction. This is recognizing that not all learners learn the same and altering assignments and instruction to match their learning styles and meet their needs where they can master the learning objectives.
I have been sitting in on other instructor's classes. By watching and taking notes on their different techniques I am hoping to pick up on different learning styles and ways I can implement them in my classes.
It is fun to do this especially when the teacher in question is in another discipline entirely. Not only are you away from the front of the classroom, you also get to learn things you never would have guessed.
Andrew,
Seeing something really reinforces what is being taught. So the more demos and practical applications you can make for your students the greater their engagement.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
I am a Pastry Chef Instructor and I find that doing demonstrations and allowing my students to experience hands on training is the most effective teaching technique.
Kristi,
This is a very good way to see how you present yourself through the eyes of your students as well as giving you ideas for how you can improve your instructional delivery.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
David,
This was a great way to show value for your content to a student that saw no application at all. I am sure as a result of your talk with him and the information he learned he is going to be in a position to really promote and win jobs for his company.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
I would try to tape my presentations in order for me to study them after the class meeting and see what points of my instructional style are weak and need work.
One important aspect is to get to know your students. I teach construction methods, and part of my curriculum was to explain APA citation.
One of my students scoffed at the idea of taking time to learn something of such little relevance to what he was going to be doing.
Because I knew about my student's activities as an independent contractor, just beginning, I was able to point out how important presentation is. It separates two people who might do the job equally well, which is crucial when you're making a name for himself. And I went on to point out that leaders in their respective fields often have the opportunity to write articles for publications, where they might want to cite a source or two.
After that, he was all ears.
Adele,
They really do need to feel comfortable in seeking and receiving input from their instructors. You make a good point about the importance this input has on student success.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
Yes. Student/student interaction is very important. Small group work lends itself well to good student interaction.
An open-door policy is key to developing, refining and enhancing classroom effectiveness. When students are free to personally contact a professor one-on-one by email, telephone or at s set time on campus, they connect better in an instructional venue. Students need to feel comfortable asking questions or relating concerns; by allowing for good interaction between student/professor, learning is enhanced.
Getting the students comfortable in your classroom helps the learning process. not getting hung up on yourself and putting positive attention to the students also enhances the learning process. not being a know it all makes the students understand that you are human too
Jacqueline,
Good strategy and one that you should make a part of your instructional planning throughout your career. As a result you will see continued instructional improvement.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
