I also use the open book method at times; however I use a timed method. For example if a class assignment is graded and I project that it will take 30 minutes, then 20 is without the book and 10 is with the book. I think using the open book method is valuable because it can validate that the student knows where to find the material in the book and not using the internet.
We begin class by providing students with the "big picture" in order for them to see how the the information discussed during class relates to this big picture. This gives students the "why" are we learning this material experience.
We also utilize small group activities and discussions a lot to convey principles and concepts we want students to learn & remember.
Reese's Pieces Candy Bribes (or Skittles or M&Ms). For some lessons or exercises, I award pieces for right answers, keeping a running tally of pieces earned.
Shawn,
I agree that the small groups are a great idea for Gen Y learners, we just need to make sure that they are well structured.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
I always utilize small group work with any lesson Plan when it is applicable. Gen Yers love learning when interacting with each other, and it is also helpful in them developing the soft skills of working as a team.
When you involve these students in either group activites or hands on learning it has been more beneficial to me in the classroom. Using technology is also a big help to strategies of teaching Gen Y learners.
Strategies that have worked for me within the classroom is having hands on work/short skits, role-plays, guest speakers, field trips, something that when the student(s) leave the classroom, they can immediately apply what they have learned in the "real" world, validating what they are learning.
Allowing students to work in small groups for discussions and small projects has worked well for me. Also utilizing technology like laptops to work on assignments or research information has worked well as long as they stay focused and do not get distracted by Facebook!
nancy,
this is a great way to reach this generation & also to use group learning.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
Posing a question (s), then placing students in small groups and having them work together to answer the question (s).
Some strategies that have worked for me with Gen Y learners are immediate implementation or execution of a theory that has been taught. As soon as I teach a theory in my class, I immediately follow up with it with a project that uses the theory. No homework assignment for tomorrow or a test on it later, it has to be right after. I also incorporate technology in a way that if I ask a question, the students will have to find me the answer using a media device and that usually bring them in and I get quite a few answers in doing so.
Frequent feedback, interactive learning style, the integration of technology, and collaborative "mentoring" are all extremely effective ways to engage Gen Y learners.
I teach using all different methods, technology, hand-on learning, group projects, and project where the student needs to multi-task.
Michael,
yes, the periodic frequent breaks may feel like wasting time, but really it helps us maximize the instructional time.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
I would agree. The students have a hard time staying on task if you go over an hour without a break. I often give the students the choice of when they break during the class (5 hour lab class)
Games. Games have worked really well for Gen Y learners. Having them team up and take part in a Jeopardy style review before a test has provided a much more fertile learning environment for these particular learners.
lisa,
I have found that this type of feedback is so key to establishing credibility & good relationships with my Gen Y students.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
instant feed back that is specific and detaied, rooted in truth
Michael,
I think finding the activities where the cell phones can be used is a generally good idea.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
Using cell phones in the class, assigning small group projects and on line assessments graded instantly.
