Valaire,
There is nothing wrong with having fun in class. You are right about the shared laugh and the impact it has on learning. I am a big fan of using humor in the classroom so the students look forward to coming to class and learning in a setting that is enjoyable.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Joanna,
Teaching today involves a lot of effort to engage students. It is often call edutainment. This is why at times instructors are both informers and well as performers.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I could not agree more. I try to make the information I give to them with an unbeat and enthusatic manner so that I can capture their attention and keep them involved. A good class laugh at topics is always fun and motivating. Several of my students have told me that they look forward to the lectures in my class because it is fun. That is what will keep them motivated and feel a part of a class
By adding in commentary that is entertaining during class students tend to pay attention more, but I have notice they are more engaged when I am really excited or enthusiastic about the topic. My enthusiam is entertaining to them and makes the atmoshere lighter and easier to learn in at the same time.
Well said Rich,
In today's world the "real-world" seems to offer less glitter than what's going in the fantasy world. For me, if I can connect emotionally with the students, the attention span lengthens...but this can be quite a challenge sometimes especially the more diverse students are.
Kevin,
What a great compliment to your educational leadership. Your students are placing value on what you tell them as evidenced by the purchase of the electronic device.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Gary,
Yes. Sometimes I share news about new technologies. I was recently surprised to see one of my students purchase such a device and mention he learned about it from one of my lectures! It made me realize that the content that I deliver is being received.
Glenn,
Right you are. I am sure we all have had teachers that did not really want to be teaching the class. If we do not bring enthusiasm for teaching to class each time it meets then it is for sure our students won't be excited about learning.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I must have enthusiasm for the topic or the students will sense otherwise and seek other instruction.
Kathleen,
Good point about how instructors need to bring their A game to class each and every time it meets. You are right that if we are not excited about being in the classroom it is for sure the students won't be either.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Students learn a lot from the behaviors and attitudes of those in authority postions. Therefore as the instructor, if you are not enthusiastic or engaged in the information you are teaching, they will feel the same way. Even just tone of voice in presenting material can effect how engaged a student is in listening. I have found it a challenge for myself to teach areas that I was disintersted in as a student, but try to look at it from another perspective to make sure my students do not feel the same way I did about the material.
Kevin,
I think it is as well. Students catch on to our energy and make it a part of themselves. This is what makes teach a lot of fun. I love it when I know I have nailed it and I got my students all pumped up and excited as they exit the class.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Casey,
Right you are. It is for sure that if students perceive their instructor is just going through the motions they will in turn tune out in relation to that course.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Dawn,
I agree. We need to bring both of these elements to our classes each time we meet with students. Enthusiasm spreads quickly so we need to "sell" our excitement about our field to your students.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I think the energy we put out is retunred to us. If we are teaching a class that we lack confidence in, students will pick up on this and it will make them unsure.
If students feel their instructor has passion for the subject it will motivate the students to follow suit.
I feel that if students see your passion and enthusiasm it naturally draws them in. In my experience the students become more engaged in the subject matter and their participation raises dramatically. They want to become part of that excitement.
David,
You are right about some students just being there to mark time. I try to work with such students but in the end it is up to them if they are going to be successful. I enjoy my other students and try to bring my challenging students along. I will not let me challenging students take me out of my game because I am going to enjoy my other students and the success they have.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Teresa,
Passion for one's field as well as enthusiasm about teaching are two elements needed for teaching success. You are right about how we need to bring this to class each time it meets.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Its difficult sometimes to be enthused about class when many times you have to deal with students who are only killing time and others that you know want to learn.I try to remind them I worked full time and went to school just like them and I relize its not easy. But if they stick with it they will have a good paying job that will last a life time.
