Classroom Dynamic
I find that every class I teach is different based on the group of students I have. Some classes do well in certain areas while others need more encoragement or excitment to enjoy that particular topic. I try to find ways to make the class exciting for them so they want to be there and learn.
I have taught the same class multiple times, but the students in the class that makes each class different. Even though it is the same information, I may need to deliver it in a different manner for each of the students to understand. It is fun to find new ways to explain/explore the same information for the students to learn.
Donald,
it really is important to teach each of our students as an individual & get to know them in that way as much as possible.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
i agree that they are all different and we need to find that something that will connect you to each one of them
Wardell,
yes, I think we have to try to reach the greatest number of students & be willing to help those who are more in the outlying areas.
Dr. Ryan Meers
I have found over the years that the best technique (for me) is to first gauge the type of approach and speed that would be appropriate for the majority of the class. Next, I implement that plan to get the majority of the class started. Last, I spend he rest of the time dealing individually with all of the students that fall outside of that majority range.
I also do agree. When I give my introduction and verbal outline of the week ahead I like to see where the discussion goes and see their reactions to certain topics. This helps me gage their interests and lets me use them to my advantage while going over the material.
Diane,
I think your plan that you've laid out here is a great way to ensure an active learning environment.
Dr. Ryan Meers
I teach Intro To Computers; and that course everyone student except for the Graphic Design Students have to take it no matter what there major; my plan is to always start fresh; never say the same lesson twice; get to know the students strengths and weaknesses; create projects for students to complete so they are always doing, have students create time frame for completing projects, set tasks is most important order to least important order.
Niurka,
yes & beyond understanding the material we need to gain credibility through our instructional technique.
Dr. Ryan Meers
I totally agree; is very important to demostrate our skills as an good instructor, that will keep students more involved with the learning process.
Bryan,
yes there are always varieties in our classes so we must teach to the various styles.
Dr. Ryan Meers
I find every class different as well, a varying degree of students that learn best by listening, visual and hands on or combinations.
Fran,
this really is key to be able to make learning enjoyable for our students.
Dr. Ryan Meers
Joseph,
it is so important to demonstrate these skills as our students need to have them regardless of their field.
Dr. Ryan Meers
I couldn't agree more! I teach a subject that can be rather dry and the students usually say, "why do we have to take this class?" I make it fun and interesting so they do want to learn it.
i teach multiple classes in a couple of different programs, so to understand versitality and flexability are important. This understanding comes from respecting that every student is an individual and that the facilitator has a responsibility to strike and wake the character in the unique learner.
Carol,
yes those real life experiences are a powerful way for them to learn.
Dr. Ryan Meers
I try to find areas that are real to them. Since I teach pediatric nursing most are excited to bring in real experiences they haave had with their own children
Lisa,
I agree with you & I think the better we know our content the more adaptive we can be. We be just as effective delivering to a lecture-oriented group as we can the interactive group.
Dr. Ryan Meers
