Changing the plan
I keep records of my class progress and how I feel each group responds to the same method of lecture or demos. I then try new things a little at a time to see what works best as a whole.
I to agree that adaptablity is key! Each group of students is unique and the dynamics are always different.
Although I cover the same type of material for the course each time, how I present it depends on the makeup of the students that quarter. Some groups just get it and others need it explained and demonstrated numerous times. I try to go with the flow. I like it that way because it also makes the material fresh for me as well, and often times gives me a different perspective that I can then use on the next class.
Hi Maria,
This is the attitude to have. If you have confidence in your abilities and working to always improve your teaching skills you will do fine as an educator. Your growth will benefit your students and that is the end goal for all educators.
Gary
I agree that it is important to be adaptable. No matter how many times I may have taught a class, the group of students are different. I try to be flexible when I can even if it means more work for me. In the long run, as long as students learn more and complain less, I will be happy!
It's always a good attribute for instructors to be flexible and remain receptive to changing teaching strategies, when a certain way of teaching isn't working. Also, changing a certain way of teaching to meet the needs of a fragment of teaching is imperative also. In other words, no two students are similar and likewise for their learning needs.
I couldn't agree with you more... each class has it's own personality. It's really important to try the things that have worked in the past but then make sure you keep yourself adapting to each class as you see fit. It's really easy to fall into the same pattern class after class because we get comfortable. Make sure you listen to your students needs and be prepared to change!
