an informal envirinment leads to student interaction
I try to keep an informal environment in the class room. I find even shy students are more apt to enter into discussion. I set a tone of mutal respect in the first few classes and let discussions flow. They usually due and can become lively debate.
Mia,
This is a good way to approach the instructional setting. The key is just as you mention to let the students know that you are going to be consistent in your enforcement of the course standards and requirements. Even when in an informal setting such as a coffee shop the professionalism is still there and the students need to realize that.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
I agree! I teach in an online setting as well as face-to-face and have found that my "book club meeting over coffees at Starbucks" method works. I have had students attempt to take advantage by presuming that my low-keyed approach meant I was a pushover, which has met with some surprise when I let the more structured and rigid side rise to the occasion, but overall it has worked well for me.
Have you encountered any of the same issues with this approach? Did it cause you to change your teaching style, or did it influence your interaction with a particular student?
Hi Isaac,
By starting the class on time and laying out a clear agenda for the day your students know you are prepared and ready to teach. As the class progresses a joke here and there or a light hearted comment helps them to see that they can learn, stay focused and yet have a good exchange with the instructor. This approach will let you get your expectations across to the students yet be approachable.
Gary
how do you all keep it informal but still get across your expectations?
keep all questions & ans. low key so that all will partisatate,even the shy ones
