Identifying course content delivery by learning about your students
I find that I modify delivery of course content continuously throughout the term, whether it be quarter or semester, as I identify and empathize with student's respective learning styles and personalities. In some classes, breakout groups work best (brainstorming), followed by lectures, or vice versa. My passion is a result of my ongoing learning from the students as to how to best "deliver." It is my most effective tool.
I like Jean's idea of modifying delivery style to increase our effectiveness, based on observing the students' learning styles. I try to do the same. But I also try to nudge my students toward being better learners through the written word, since the career they're headed into (paralegal) is heavily focused on that style of communication. So activities in my classes tend to require practice in written learning over practicing the visual, tactile, and auditory styles that come more naturally to many people.
I have to agree with you regarding a modification of the delivery of content based on the learning styles of the students. You have the basic information that must be delivered to the students, it's a matter of the proper delivery that is most effective for students to retain and understand it. If your delivery must be altered or modified for the good of the students, so be it. I also do the same with my classes.
Hi Jean,
You comments are reflective of a good instructor. You are willing to listen and learn from your students so you know how to better meet their needs at that point in the course.
Gary
