I teach math in a room that gets used by a number of different classes, so the physical aspects of the room is pretty static. However, I find how the students position themselves in that environment reflects their attitude to being in the room. It is always my goal to bring the students to the front of the room to encourage participation not only with me but with the other students.
There's an expression that has been credited to Benjamin Franklin that states something to the effect of " Tell me and I will forget; teach me and I may remember; involve me and I will learn." I try to subscribe to that idea when instructing my students. I have a wide range of ages, backgrounds and learning styles in my student groups, all of which impacts their abilities to process, comprehend, retain and apply what's presented in our courses on a daily basis. I find the most successful approach has been a combination of different resources and media (esp. how-to videos for any practical skills)along with visual aids/hands on demonstrations to keep the students interested, but most importantly, involved in the learning process. It also gives them an opportunity to express their creativity and intrigue, which has provided me with tremendous insight. An environment that encourages exploration and expression has often given me material and ideas for future lectures the next time around. I learn from my students what works, what else would be helpful or could be improved by involving them. Involvement is beneficial to all!
GEORGE,
So true in terms of presenting a comprehensive learning platform for your students. With the outline you have shared you have all the components needed for student engagement and success.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
James,
Right you are because you are the learning leader and as so you need to provide your students with examples, experiences and content that will enable them to move forward in their educational growth.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
The learning environment has a huge impact on knowledge retention. If the instructor does not have hands on examples, multimedia training aids, or an engaging class room layout that facilitates learning, the instructor will have difficulty maintaining both students' attention and information retention. They are more apt to remember an example or training device from the classroom used in a lecture than other non- emphasized parts of the lecture. Also, static displays,props, and items that are related to discussion topic are helpful to invoke curiosity and questions.
As an instructor you set the tone and as long as you have a clear direction by utilizing the "contract" which is the syllabus and ensuring that you follow it, and when changes happens it is communicated, students will always respond, because you are advocating for their success.
I absolutley agree, so many distractions these days. Its not just about the disruptive students, now its the phones too. Keeping all the students engaged is not an impossible task, but it is extremely difficult.
Lisa,
The more examples the better because when examples are used they enhance the value of the course content as well as motivate the students to see relevancy and application in what they are learning.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Having the opportunity to show examples of the topic in a variety of instructional method in an open and structured environment will encourage your students to learn.
It is best to create an environment that closely resembles the work environment if possible. This will give the student a better understanding of the theory that was introduced. Being able to translate knowledge into skill is essential in our learning environment.
I may start a class discussing theory - then - as a break from the classroom environment, we go into the lab to practice the 'theory' just introduced. The lab environment consistently 'outshines' the classroom in attentiveness, enthusiasm and general understanding. After lab, we return to the classroom to review both theory/practice and how they relate.
The learning environment plays a very important role in the instructional process. As an adult educator, I believe that the instructor has to feel comfortable to be able to deliver instruction efficient and effective. By doing so the deliverance and receipt from the students feel alike. The environment has to be conducive for both the instructor and the student. This is where it starts.
The learning environment plays a huge role in learning process, which is part of the instructional process. The environment sets the tone or mood as students filter into a classroom. If the instructor has put thought and time into the environment, the students will feel more confident and reassured that they are going to be able to concentrate and be able to pay attention and learn. The environment can make or break the mood of the class. If it looks messy and chaotic, more than likely the students will behave in this matter. A room that doesn't appear to be professional, neat and orderly will negatively impact everyone in the room and therefore, won't lead the students toward personal success, but away from it.
I believe the learning environment is an essential part of learning. Each Instructor should work to set up that learning environment. This is conducive to learning.
Malek,
This I believe is an important part of the instructional process. Demonstrating the human factor when you visit with students goes a long way in earning their respect and developing rapport.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I find that engaging in lighthearted conversations sometimes allow the students to get things off their chest and helps them become comfortable in the class. Having a class with comfortable students enhances the learning environment.
Malek Dieb
Chase,
Right you are. Instructors that follow this method constantly find themselves trying to get organized in a course but it is tough to do when a course in moving forward. With a good course outline an instructor can enjoy student interaction and the sharing of content and experiences.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
In order for students to learn, you need to have your things in order for class. For example: if you don't have a good course outline, you will most likely play catch up as you go through your course, trying to build an outline as you go.
JAMES,
Can you expand on this by sharing some strategies that you use with your students? Thanks for your input on this.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Quite a bit, for both the student and instructor.
