The use of case studies closely related to their personal lives is a good way to show relevance of the material. Also, through the application of material in their daily lives, they will have reason to recall what they learned, thereby keeping it fresh.
by reinforcing subject just lectured on by combining a group activity, diagrams, games relating to subject at hand
I try to give my students examples of how the information applies as well as ways in which they can break the large words down to prefix/suffix ( I am a dental assisting instructor) in order to understand the meaning of the word and its application. It really helps them with testing if they get stuck especially becasue so many medical/dental terms can seem so similar.
I do this too. When my students are learning anatomy this is especially useful.
When presenting new material, I make sure that they understand how it will apply to them by giving examples or by presenting a role-playing situation.
Hi Matt,
I really like this model. It is sequential and progressive so as the students build their knowledge and skill they assume additional decision/problem solving responsibility. This type of education has them ready when they step out into the real world of work.
Gary
I apply a process in which I outline what the student is going to learn. Secondly, I show them an example outside the classroom. Thirdly, I demonstrate the skill I propose to teach. They are then required to apply the knowledge in a "safe" environment in which feedback is provided and assistance is offered. The student then applies it in an operational context with "live" customers. Lastly, feedback is offered by way of customer input as well as my instructional feedback. As the class progresses through this format each day is a continual learning process. In addition, other students are on a parallel path and so they learn by observing others as well.
Hi Linda,
I agree with you that the more variety you can offer students the more knowledge retention there will be. By coming at the material from different angles the students get to see different applications and this really helps them with their problem solving skill development.
Gary
I am a big believer in using a variety of learning styles for any lesson. I believe that students need to encounter information at least 3 times in a multiple of ways to retain the information. I usually introduce information with discuss and powerpoint. I reinforce the information using case studies or role playing. Then I finish the class by dividing the students into small groups, giving each a single scenario with appropriate skill sheets. This allows the students to practice what they have learned in a stress free environment.
Hi Darci,
That saying is so baaaaaaaad! (the whole tooth) I love your sense of humor and I know it is what keeps your students engaged in the learning process. The key is when you mentioned that they are disappointed when a slide or two goes by and you don't have a saying up there for them. Keep up the good work!
Gary
Process right after presentation, either by small group activity/assignment or individual writing or research assignment, and ask them for the focus to be on how they would apply this to their future jobs in the field they are going into.
I use funny sayings or twists on words for the headings in my powerpoint...Since I teach dental assisting I may use the tooth, the whole tooth and nothing but the tooth. The students are so used to my silly little sayings that they are disappionted if a couple slides go by and I have not written anything. It's always a surprise what funny saying or picture I might use to try to help them focus and retain the information.
I believe that teaching the classroom and lab component of a course is helpful to students. You work with students to understand the material then get to apply in a clinical lab setting. Many students who are tactile learner see the “light bulb†come on in the lab setting.
Hi Joan,
Good strategy. You are using a good blend between content and application. The students can graphically see what they have accomplished by the end of the class. This is a powerful motivator.
Gary
One of the methods I use to aid the student in retaining new information is provide them with notes along with hands on applications. The students are using more than one sense to do the project and are able to utilize the project for their future. For example, when I teach an excel class I have the students view what a completed spreadsheet will look like. They in turn will have to complete a spreadsheet similar to what they see. Most of students leave class with a feeling of accomplishment.
Hi Melanie,
Good approach. The key is what you mentioned repetition. Good communication skills are so important if you can get them ingrained into the minds and abilities of students you will be doing their careers a great service.
Gary
By applying personal experiences during class as appropriate. By lecturing about a process, demonstrating the process then having the students do a return demonstration. Provide as much hands on time as possible where appropriate
I constantly repeat information especially the four bases of writing that are part of our curriculum from Fundamentals of Communication to Advanced Composition. After four quarters, it should be second nature to the students to consider them (the four bases) when they write anything.
Since I teach writing, it is important to always link the ability to write and/or communicate to the real world or workplace. I try to give examples of when writing well can be an advantage or just a matter of practical application. Asking students where they see the application of writing skills in their current job or in a future career would be good too.
Hi Renee,
Good approach to your instructional delivery sequence. You are helping the students to build a solid knowledge foundation and then moving up from there. This helps them to see relevancy and application to what they are doing and the skills they are developing.
Gary
