Didactic Questioning
Using didactic questioning techniques and rhetoric is a great way to establish yourself as an authority in the classroom. Prior to stepping into a classroom for the first time I worried about how I would present myself to students. Would I be able to convey the material? Would I be able to command respect in the classroom? How would I handle unruly students?
A fellow instructor advised me that I should ask questions that I know the answer to - this in turn almost completely sets up a lecture. In one well worded question you can a) gauge student knowledge, b) see if they did prior assignments or reading, c) involve the students in the course and d) direct the classroom activity - all by asking a question. It's an excellent technique that all instructors should master right away. After I asked my first didactic question I knew that it was the right way to get started.
Josef
Josef,
I really like this idea. I tend to use this style of teaching anyway - but thinking of this as "setting up the lecture" is a real confidence builder.
Hi Josef,
Great piece of advice that I am sure will last a life time. Students are automatically impress when an instructor is knowledgeable in the subject matter.
Patricia
Hi Deborah,
Students enjoy having an open learning atmosphere. This type of environment brings about great excitement to the students.
Patricia
I believe these kinds of questions make for interesting classroom discussions and immediately indicate to students that there will be good give and take in the class. It starts the term/class off on the right foot and allows students to consider new ideas, new opinions, and prepares them for an open atmosphere for learning---the best kind!
