it is a great tool for a rapid learner
Patricia,
Good strategy. You have them at a point where you are making the last set of connections between what they have been learning and their next step which is the real world. The more you can help them see the future the better prepared they will be to be successful.
Gary
I also use the news articles, videos, lectures and a hands on project. I try to incoperate at least two of these in each class. I try to vary it between classes to keep their attention and the learning process going.
Maing sure the outline and material are the same and relevant to course.
Since I get my class for their last semester in preparation for their national certification, and externships, I introduce all the material and explain how and why it is utilized in the "real world".
Nina,
This to me is a great way to teach. You are showing your students both application and relevancy. This will make the transition from the classroom to the work world much easier.
Gary
In making my plans for the individual classes, I try to accommodate at least one activity or segment that uses the different learning styles. This stretches me and keeps the students focused.
Pairing lecture materials with clinical experiences through problem-solving, case studies and interactive discussions. For example, a student may have a great experience during clinical and s/he shares during post conference. The material received from the previous days lecture would be referenced to connect the student to the process of theory to actual events. Students then discuss the "what if" by interactive brainstorming.
I have researched the applicability of the different skills teached at the medical assistants lab in school and how they are being assessed in the real workplace. This gives me a realistic approach to teaching and at the same time, students tend to learn more enthusiastically since they expect to be practicing those same skills in a few months.
To accommodate different learning styles I use many different instructional techniques, using a handout for reading, a physical activity if it is appropriate for the lesson, as well as a lecture with presentation. Many occasions labs are relevant and useful in my teaching curriculum also. With any of these methods of instruction I find it valuable to take time at the end of class to reflect of the learning that the students participated in.
I use real-world examples and scenarios to illustrate how the material that is covered is actually applied in the field. That way, students can see the relevance of course material. We also use term projects that function as real world-type assignments that they would receive from their supervisors.
I had to do that for two of my new classes. I am teaching Computers and Medical Records, Coding & Reimbursement in the medical assistant program. I knew before starting the class that my bilingual students have language barriers. Not only do they have these barriers, but they also are academically delayed. Some students are depending more on the visual learning style because of their language barriers. So, What I am doing is using a lot of power points and using the textbook to teach content. I do have them do one writing assignmen to verify what they are learning.
I've found that our students are often unaware of their own learning preferences, so we have to discover them together. Usually, I'll adapt instruction methods as the course goes along in response to what I've learned about their learning styles. I'll also point out to them difference ways they might approach a certain activity or exercise based on their different learning styles. This way, they develop an awareness of the methods that work best for them and can apply it to other learning situations.
I try to incorporate visual aids in my lectures and sync up lecture & lab material in order to reinforce lecture material in a tactile modality.
Implementing relevant course content keeps the students on the cutting edge of their field of study. By this, they will stay ahead on the latest trends of healthcare because policies, procedures as well as hardware and software changes occure all the time especially with the fact that most medical establishments are going green. Bringing relevant course content grabs the student's interest more so which further validates them in making the right career choice.
Hi Amy,
Good combination and good change of pace. Both are important if you are going to keep the students engaged throughout the class.
Gary
Hi John,
This variety of learning options is a good idea. This way the students can use their different learning preferences throughout the class.
Gary
I usually utilize a powerpoint presentation while talking about the material, which accomadates my visual and audio learners. Also, we go to the lab to look at the various points of the lecture so that they can physically see and touch the items that were discussed (when applicable).
I setup different stations with different tasks to accomplish at each. They all differ at what they need to do. Some have hands on, some are problem solving, some are research, and some are communication base with teams.
I ensure that I have different activities prepared for class that will encompass more than one learning style, so class will be beneficial to all my students.
