It works for me to use PowerPoint presentations and graphing calculators.
I have used information that students have received and provided instant feedback to see what they have done right or wrong depending on the subject of the day. the great part is that in culinary school, they need the feedback to progress.
Engage them in the instructional design process. This includes styles of assessment and evaluation.
One strategy that seems to work is creating an environment that allows them to discuss projects that I assigned to each individual. Allowing other students to give feedback seems to initiate personal growth among the students.
I agree that a lot of hands on, and a lot of interaction in lab and class.
I have let the students use their phone as a light when working in the lab and to take pictures of assemblies so they can look back at it later to help them get it back together. Sometime I let them look up things on the internet also. They like this.`
I admit that when I first started teaching I lectured for long periods of time because that is how I learned and assumed that was how this generation would learn also. Unfortunately, I did not get the success out of my students that I would like to see.
When I switched things up and started incorporating more activities and hands on learning I saw a rapid improvement with the Gen Y students.
When leading a class I too like to keep the lectures short and to the point. I like to deliver a fast paced class and received many student compliments too. I am glad the majority of my student liked to learn this way. I also delivered quick feedback so they knew at any given time where they stood. When correcting a student I usually include words like "I suggest you do it this way" instead of "do it this way" and include "you choose." I tend to get better buy-in when I suggest than when I my order.
They love the latest information/trends. Tying some new advancements into the present subject matter helps. They are not big on reading but love videos, we have permissions from many OEM's so I use their information often.
The retention of imformation by them is scary, they have a difficult time remembering what was stated from the classroom to the lab. They will grab their cell phone but forget their paperwork, pen, meter, safety glasses, etc...
Their overall take on life is difficult to grasp, they don't wear socks, they don't tie their shoes and they love VERY loose fitting pants. From a safety perspective they are a train wreck and get very offended if you mention these facts.
I agree Tim, the students would rather learn hands on than sit and watch a lecture.
I use PowerPoint presentations for lecture, then online assignment for homework that students get instant feedback. I also assign projects for students to work in small groups.
Patricia,
I think this isi a great idea & I'm guessing really helps engage them in the learning even more.
Dr. Ryan Meers
I think that helping each other and working in small groups is an excellent strategy for Gen Y
In my classroom, when the assignment calls for a project, I make it a brochure in Publisher, or a PowerPoint etc. The information is still being learned but all the while integrating the technology.
I teach automotive classes and have found the faster I can get their hands on electronic equipment such as scan tools, oscilloscopes, etc, the better they respond and the more they learn. To much classroom and not enough lab time seems to hurt this generation more than help them.
My Generation Y students glaze-over with PPs and I don't blame them. PP is over-used because most publishers now provide the supplement and it's easy. However, I also discovered that Gen.. Y students enjoy creating their own PP presentations because they like the technology. So, I rarely use PP - but offer students the choice of creating their own (along with other alternative assessments such as creating their own avitars).
Ann Marie,
I think this is an excellent approach
Dr. Ryan Meers
Leaving there cell phones off and pay attention to what we say is the big challange. Google is there middle name.
Gen Yers need to be involved in using technology. I have done Internet scavenger hunts and also have sent students to the library to look for resources pertaining to the class activities. As more Gen Yers come into the classroom, my challenge is to look for more technological activities.
Strategies that I incorporated in my lessons include a variety of topics that only last for 15 minutes. I have my students do a lot of research on the web, that seems to satify thier longing for instant feedback. I also try and keep the class moving so my students do not get bored.
