Using class time efficiently
Most students prefer a roadmap or outline for their day in class. I always write on the board
the topic for each hour and identify which topics
will require student participation either on their
own or in groups. By letting the student know what
is expected of them at the beginning of the class,
they will have chance to organized and become more
efficient in the learning process and ultimately
save time during the classroom period.
I have started to write the daily activities on the board. It helps not only the student but also myself. If something happens that sidetracks the plan of the day, I can glance at the scheduled activities to help refocus. My school has us teach one class for a duration of three weeks (15 class days). We keep a 15 day plan on our desks to keep us aware of the entire course schedule.
Exactly, when we have a clear agenda, we can make certain that we always drive towards our goals. Some instructors go as far as publishing their learning agendas for students to see.
This is good idea to always refer to the roadmap. Keeping it apparent will help with the overall agenda as well as overall goal. Sometimes, one may steer away during the lecture due to students bringing ideas that might elongate the subject. I think looking back at the agenda will help with overall goal. Great suggestion.
Each day I write the daily activities on the board for all to see and that in turn remove all doubt of my expectations for each student.
I do a similar daily schedule on my board and I have a detailed course calendar for the student I hand out at the beginning of the class. I always refer them to the calendar to see what quizzes, lectures, etc are coming up. I think they really appreciate the structure and knowing what to expect from each class.
A well crafted syllabus works the same way. You must bring participants back to the source document, refer to it, and stick by it. Your board technique is a great "menu of the day" Frequently, PPT presentaitons include an agenda...but you only see it once then you are off to the races. Preserving the roadmap in plain sight is a useful notion.
