using power point and videos
i always use videos in my class because it will let the students to pay attention
I agree, there is nothing worse than death by PowerPoint. They can be used, however.. Reading line by line on a never ending PowerPoint is not only boring, but you will lose the attention of your class, or at least part of them very quickly
I agree, power points can be a helpful tool to some extent, yet a harmful tool if not utilized correctly. So often instructors utilize power points and students get bored with them. The key is to utilize them as a teaching method and also keep the student engaged as well.
I could not agree more. I am a powerpoint user and creator to the max, however, it cannot all be about the powerpoint. In addition, I've seen too many powerpoints where it looks like someone just put the book on the screen. We call this "Death by Powerpoint." Powerpoint slides should only include the key points of a lecture, the more animated the better and sometimes they can also be use as a game or exercise tool.
Trevor,
I agree with you in regard to the power point presentations. So many faculty use them regularly that my students have grown to expect them and get upset if we don't use them.
I feel a little of everything will help the class go along way.
Wendy,
your statements are great points to remember. Technology is not a replacement for good teaching, but should be an enhancer.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
While I agree that powerpoint and video can definitely enhance a lecture and promote student engagement, I have found that it is often abused. I have seen on so many occasions instructors using slides to lecture (reading from the slide) rather than preparing for the course. Talk about detrimental to student engagement. Having said that, if used appropriately to enhance the content of the lecture, it is definitely an AWESOME tool for student engagement.
I totally agree. I think it's important to create your own Powerpoint lectures and avoid those that usually come with the books we use. Students definitely pick up on filler material really quick so finding your own relevant material is crucial to keeping the students attention.
William,
this is an excellent point & I highly recommend adapting/using your own ppts for these reasons.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
I really enjoy using power points as well, but I have found that the students are most receptive to power points that I have personally made. If I made the power point I know exactly what I want to say and when to say it. I also embed videos and discussion questions into the power points to connect with different learning styles.
Albert,
great point & we need to make sure we are reviewing our own notes frequently.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
I use them too...very effective. However, students know when a PP presentation is being used as a "filler", ie, something repetative or unrelated.
I think students refer to this as "Death by PowerPoint". They must be current and relative.
Albert D'Addario
Trevor,
yes, when the students can see it "unfolding" in front of them. Also, the powerpoint has become a crutch for paying attention as they just copy what's in front of them & don't think about it.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
powerpoints were more useful when they were "new" now they seem to put people to sleep. Chalkboard and a live,animated motivated teacher are key.
I do not like powerpoints much anymore. I use them for pictures and to keep me on track, but the power of the whiteboard is amazing, and acting with energy is key.
James,
this is a good idea as it can emphasize a point & help keep them engaged.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
I also use power points with video inserts that are sometimes funny to help keep there intrest up and also lecture during parts of the power point.
Walt,
this is an excellent & practical point & one I've found as well. I also try to give a notes page or questions that pertain to the video so they are more actively engaged.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
In my program, power points result in instant sleep time for the students. That's why I rarely use them. My students do much better with videos, but I found it beneficial to keep the room light on, or partially on to make sure they stay attentive.
