Organizing a learning session requires two skills: 1) the ability to organize a
class through the syllabus and the sequencing of material and 2) the
ability to help students see connections and relationships. This module explores both skills.
What an instructor does in the first few class sessions sets the tone
for the rest of the semester. We know from research on teaching that
classrooms in which students can be actively involved in the learning
process are more effective for student learning. This module explores what instructors can do create a climate in which students are willing to be active
participants.
Students stay interested and learn more from the class when instructors use many different techniques to involve them in the learning process. These range all the way from very short and simple techniques like telling a story about the material to more involved activities like small group work during collaborative learning projects.
This module explores a number of suggested techniques that can be integrated into the learning process.
In responding to student questions there are a number of guidelines
which can positively reinforce good student responses and facilitate
further discussion. This module will explore a few recommended guidelines.
Almost all instructors will need to lecture some of the time. An
effective lecture can stimulate and involve students. A boring lecture
becomes another requirement to be suffered through. Lectures are useless
as a learning tool if students are not paying attention. Lectures that
are poorly organized or presented in a boring way simply do not hold
student attention. Let's look at some ways to develop an interesting
presentation.