planning and preparation
what are some good tips to make sure you are prepared for each class?
I must admit that I have been caught in situations where I had to "wing it" and it is not fun and always picked up by the students. They are smart, intuitive and perceptive. The benefit of planning commands respect from the class and they are more likely to believe what you are teaching them as being viable industry information.
I have found that organization is key! For each of my classes I keep a binder with all of my lesson plans, assignments, and a list of all multimedia/resources. Prior to the class I fill out a lesson plan with what I want to accomplish in the class, how I'll get them interested, and any activities I have planned for that period. I find that its easier when I have that guide to follow and I can go back and add to or change the lesson plans at any point if I come up with new ideas! Our program director also does spot checks on our lesson plans which keeps us motivated and makes it so that we don't get lazy and just "wing it". I find that my classes run much smoother when I have a well thought out lesson plan to work off of.
Organization is one of the areas that can have a significant impact on student success. I start my first session by going over course expectations, which also includes tips for helping students organize and plan their time appropriately.
Being organized will help you meet all your students expectation and yours.Also you will be alot more prepared.
At the beginning of every subject, I spend extra time to prepare the materials needed for the class, prepare all assignments and exams,and may plan a field trip a week in advance.
Hi Michael,
Be organized. Have everything laid out ready to go before the class meets. This way your nerves can be settled before you start the class. Be prepared, know that you know the material, be confident in what you know and make sure you have twice as much material as the time you have to teach it. The reason is that you will use up the material very quickly and you don't want "dead" air with 30 minutes of class left.
Have a variety of options available to you so you can shift directions with the class if needed and still keep the students engaged.
Gary
