The check off list
In order to always be prepared to start a new class I created a step by step check off list for myself. This ensured that I covered everything each new start.
Hi Geary,
Thank you for the kind words about the blog and forum comments. Your comments about what both a soldier and instructor needs to do are dead on for serving students. If you aren't able to do these three things then teaching is going to be quite a challenge.
Gary
I enjoyed the various comments listed on your blog and plan on reading others next week.
As a military soldier we lived by the phrase, "improvise, adapt, and over come". This stays true to teaching and other professions.
The checkoff list is a great organizer for those who have problems getting tasks done from memory.
Hi Geary,
Good point. Instructors need to follow some form of procedure with the check list being their guide but they have to be flexible. It seems like every time my class meets there is something that comes up that can take me away from my plan. Adjusting for it and then moving on keeps you focused.
Gary
Keeping focus on what is to be acheived in a certain amount of time is essential. Just like everything in life, to accomplish the most, one must prepare a plan/map to layout what needs to be accomplished. It is only a guide and that changes will often be needed. Just like a road detour, an instructor must be able to change what was planned to what is taking place with the intent of meeting some of the items on the checklist.
Let a checklist be a guide and not a practice that cannot be improved upon.
It seems that a check off list can be very useful for the instructor in a couple of ways. The check off list can ensure that the instructor has covered everything on his/her agenda (like previously stated) and also to ensure that the instructor has addressed the particular needs/questions/problems of a student.
I agree, there is no substitution for preparation. Preparation is the key for success. Study the subject matter and always present it in a positive way.
That is a good way to get prepare for a new class. I do also have a check off list with help me to go step by step to prepare my classes.
I flew corporate/charter aircraft for 12 years before I got back into education. Checklist were a must in aviation. I had a daily checklist to keep me on track when I returned to the classroom. I have encouraged my new Instructors to do the same.
Lloyd, thant worked for me too and as Steve asked, my check list did include a lesson plan.
Do you also use a daily lesson plan in your class?
What kind of check list. Can you share it.
