Changing Delivery Methods
I have found, after almost 6 years of teaching, that changing the delivery methods from quarter to quarter helps me to refine the course content, reach more students with different learning styles, and keep the class fresh and interesting. I have moved away from straight lecture toward shorter lectures with question/answer periods, audio/video presentations, hands-on practice or case studies that illustrate reading/lecture topics.
I didn't initially realize that students were not retaining much of a 45 minute lecture until it came to applying some of these concepts through projects, quizzes or exams. I finally came to the conclusion that less is actually more with lecture; I find that letting students "direct" the lecture is much more effective, because I'm teaching them what they don't understand rather than just reiterating reading...
Hi Susan,
Good point. A bored instructor results in a bored class of students. By keeping it exciting and fresh students will respond to the instructor and his/her efforts.
Gary
I agree that your recommendations to vary delivery methods keep the class fresh and interesting for students BUT it also helps us as instructors stay motivated in teaching the necessary material. I try to avoid getting in a rut relative to delivery methods and even vary format of PowerPoint slides by including questions and pictures in the slide to convey ideas other than through bulleted text.
Hi Sara
I agree with you but also I will adjust my method of delivery materiel upon the class attitude and behave
I'm curious to know if any writing instructors have used these techniques.
I've taught a Business Writing class that was heavy on lecture, despite my best efforts to include in-class project.
I do think the mini-lecture idea would help.
Other suggestions...?
Hi Sara,
The shorter lecture times enable the students to internally process the information that has just been covered and start making it a part of their working memory. Also, with the shorter lecture periods you can have activities that help the students to apply the new concepts which increases their understanding of relevancy.
Gary
I believe it is essential to change your method of delivering material because it keeps you as an instructor sharp and focused on how to capture and retain students' attention. I also noticed that student involvement is much higher when they receive information in mini lectures vs a 45 minute lecture. By keeping their interest level high, they learn more and thus perform better with their studies!
I love the interactive nature of what you are describing in the lecture where students can help shape that lecture. In one of the courses I teach I like to start the lecture by probing into the class to see what is surfacing based on the overall topic that I want to get into. Of course, it requires that the students had engaged and read the material, or at least were familiar with the material.
Hi Gary,
Good observation. This is what professional development is all about. As an educator you are striving for ways of being more effective and efficient in your instruction. Using the methods you listed are enabling you to do just that. Keep up the growth and enjoy being the facilitator of knowledge for your students.
Gary
