Making the Dull Interesting
From time to time I teach High Power Audio Amplifier Design, not the most exciting subject in world. But the use of interactive diagrams (that can be made with power point using hyperlinks) students can explore the subject easily and have an engaging class.
Danitra,
yes, the learning can be & should be viewed as a fun activity.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
Making things fun is always key! I love music too, that is how I learn better! I also think humor is another great one! Smiling and laughing makes others also know your not afraid to laugh at yourself and also lighten things up a bit for students to now learning doesn't always have to be so serious!
Bringing real life situations is especially important. I teach nursing and most students find nursing care plans rather boring. However when I inform my students the importance of keeping their jobs as related to NCP knowledge they really seem to perk up and start taking them more seriously.
I teach environmental science, and I use every student's personal relationship with the environment as a learning tool. I demonstrate how the environment touches everyone in a uniquly pesonal way, and each person's response to that "touching" is a measurement of the importance of the environment in their philosphy. Every student has a personal relationship with the environment, and every student discovers that he or she has a personal interest in the environment that is unique to their personality.
One of the classes I teach is CPR and First Aid. I do believe that students become more interested when the Instructor is passionate about what they are teaching. Bring real-life stories into the lecture can really help students grasp the insturction you are giving.
I like the idea of making learn fun and a game. I use jeopardy game as a review for material at the end of each lecture. It even has the music. The students love it. Great way include test question over material just learned.
Joyce,
yes, the games really do help heighten the interest level.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
I teach an English Composition course and I know the value of making a game of any content. The students enjoy learning when they are challenged in a game setting. It is especially helpful for students who typically have difficulty in the traditional classroom setting.
Michael,
this is a great idea & demonstrates your creativity. I think even by showing the students that you are willing to try & liven it up, they will be more receptive.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
Electrical theory is not a fun class so by making a game out of it and using magnetic to show flux line and types of electrical equipment that uses magnetism for their operation
Andres,
this is a great example of using technology & the subject matter to have an exciting & engaging course.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
