Creating lesson plans
Would it suffice to ask the students to turn in cards with a few things they would REALLY like to learn and perhaps devote a class to those topics? Many times interest is lost due to the student thinking they are not appreciated as a learner and not listened to. It seems encouraging for the student if the instructor was willing to spend time on 'their' topic of interest as long as it pertained to the course. Besides, it would be an interesting way to poll the class and see if maybe there is one topic that comes up often.
Hi E Morris,
This is a very good way to customize your instruction to meet the needs of your current students. By listening and observing you can develop a very accurate picture of what your student need to be successful in your course.
Gary
I like to ask my students about their expectations on day one, and then use that information as I create lessons plans and their affilated activities throughout the course.
Hi James,
Good job of analyzing your course and listening to your students. This is what professional growth is all about. Also you will be able to see how you are improving each time you teach the course.
I wish you successful teaching.
Gary
it seems to me, that whomever decides what a
good lesson plan is my situation, should have
possibly kicked some ideas around with their peers before they put this thing into action.
i have been listening and watching the students
actions of late. they have no problem letting you
know if doing the same thing over and over again is boring! but they also let you know when you
have caught their interest,
i've been working with that to make the class
more exciting
Well put I start a new course by asking what they would like to be able to walk away from the course with by the course end.
It allows you to focus in their area of interest
Hi Kathryn,
This is a good idea. You will really enjoy using this process in learning more about your students and their learning desires. I use this method throughout the courses I teach to make sure I am hitting on the things that these students see as being important. Keeping in mind that you have a core curriculum that you have to follow and the students need to know this. This does not keep you from expanding your instruction to hit upon the needs of your students as identified by the comments put on the cards.
I wish you the best with your teaching. You are doing some great things with and for your students.
Gary
