i try to combine both. during research on a topic (i teach medical subjects and in animal science classes), whether it's books, websites, hands-on techniques, i try to introduce them into the classroom for the students to use, whether as part of lecture or as an adjunct to material presented. so that there is a variety of techniques used to present the material to different learning styles.
In fact, I cannot agree more with this statement: I always try to use students' input to built more capabilities as Learning Facilitator.
Hi. To me, there is no stop in learning, everyday we should learn something big or small. People who surrounds us will nourish us in learning. It doesn't mean that i am an instructor i know everything. I always tell my students we are all learning, they can share soe thoughts, and i do.
I am continually researching for new information and ways to enhance student learning. I also ask students to research and bring the information back to class on questions I feel would benefit further indepth inquiry.
I have to be careful because students have been known to say "be careful asking questions because she will ask you to do research."
Keeping updated with the new technology will help you to keep balanced with the class room,the flow in the classroom will be easier as you go.I have the student participate to bring forward information they may have found either in a book or on the computer an share with the class. This helps with my teaching as they teach me.
Keeping in touch with people in the industry from previous jobs, friends, technical training and students is a good starting place. Staying current with the technology is a vital step to being a great instructor. I feel that each class helps me prepair for the next. yes, sometimes you get the same old questions but you also get the questions that make you look at things in a new light. (thats the ones I like!!!) as for new was of teaching I feel that it is always good to sit in on other instructors and see how they do things, It doesn't even have to be the same class, it's more the delivery, the way they question students & even present their materials.
Since I teach in the field of fashion design and marketing, I must constantly research and stay on top of reading websites and magazines in order to understand the current fashion markets. In addition, I teach textiles courses, so I also need to be in the know about advanced technology in the textiles industry. I find that my extra research allows me to design in-class activities that will be met with enthusiasm and will also be engaging for the student learners. It is important as instructors to not get set in one method of teaching a class but to constantly push to upgrade and change activities that are challenging in the modern field of design.
Indeed everyday is a learning process. It is important to keep up to date with what we teach by utilizing prep time to research more information as we can never learn too much. There is always new information on material we teach.
I find that these things can be synthesized: as i research relevant topics, the material naturally suggests optimal teaching strategies. I find that I can develop content and delivery strategies synergistically.
It depends on the subject matter. If I have a lot of familiararity with the topic, I can spend more time on pedagogy. However if I don't have a deep understanding of the subject I will ultimately need to devote more time to attaining knowledge. Time must be made for both.
Reading and reseach about the subject you are teaching and you can learn with the experience of others co-workers, teachers.
I am an avid reader and am constantly exploring new trends in the industry in my personal time. This allows me to stay current and constantly learning. I then work in this new content as it becomes relevant or replaces older thinking on the subject at hand.
I like to read about my subjects, I enjoy the diagnostic scenarios that our trade magazines provide. As I am going through it I try to see if I can predict the outcome. I also like to sit in on others classes to see a different delivery, to get insight from someone else facilitating the same subject.This usually brings a fresh approach .
I believe that is a daily ritual. Each day in the classroom is a learning environment. I'm always wondering what can I do differently, and what can I do to positively influence the learner. As a matter of fact each class seems to take on a different personality and what works in one doesn't work in another.
I understand and feel the tension related to time constraints. I endeavor to make time for both. The content of our program demands keeping up with advances in technology. Being a newer instructor also demands that I continually learn and develop new ways of providing a positive and fulfilling learning environment for my students. Sometimes this is on "work-time", most often I invest some of my personal time.
I truly believe every day is a learning experience. Sometimes students can teach you something.
I have taken the extra time to learn more about the subject matter at hand, I will look at the NEW information and think about "what did it take for me to understand it" at that point i will make notes in my guide book for reference, I will also use others as a source on how they present the information.
Staying current with industry trends by reading periodicals & professional memberships. Keeping up with Professional development and educational theory by online classes like this one
I always try to make an effort to stay up to date on the latest research and studies on topics that I teach by reading journals and articles and taking classes when possible. I then incorporate relevant data into my material by "mixing and matching" different ways of introducing the new research using the response of my students as a guide.
As far as developing new ways of teaching, I use a trial and error method. Your students will always be your best guide in determining the best way to teach material. I try to mix it up so students are kept on their toes and don't come to expect the same old boring routine everyday.
I Agree that i have need to grow as a teacher, the biggest problem I face is the retention and attendance issues. these training programs are helping me to understand so much more than I did before. they are full of ideas and suggestions that are definately helpful
