Their are several types of testing with multiple choice being the most common.  They all have pros and cons.  Some testing works better for different individuals.  Some applications will require a certain type of test.

Their are several types of testing with multiple choice being the most common.  They all have pros and cons.  Some testing works better for different individuals.  Some applications will require a certain type of test.

Nothing beats a good discussion between instructors and students.  You can tell by the answers that the students respond with whether they have been listening or not.  There is also experience insight from the instructor to help futher the discussion.  Which now paints a larger picture for the student in their upcoming work environment.

Always give the student full respect, listen to their question completely and respond with an accurate answer, which might lead to a further discussion.

Each student has a different way of learning, focus on all of the methods so that all of your students understand and comprehend what you are teaching.

Keep their hands and mind busy, between book work and hands on Labs.  Find what they're interested in and give them real world examples and use your practical real-world experience, to show them why what they are learning is important.

Keeping the student's attention should be your number one goal, in order for them to learn effectively and comprehend what you are teaching.  If you can bring some excitement to the classroom they will comprehend so much more of their lesson.

The human factor as said above, students want to know that you have been in their shoes and still have a personal side that is not all business, have a little fun with the students.  Have some good humor, ask them how their day is going or what they are doing the rest of the day, plans for the weekend.

Your students are like a book read the cover and get to know them.  Learn what works for them and what works for the other students as well.  You can tell when students are interested in what you have to say or discuss.

I like the idea of splitting the lecture up into maybe two segments as we all know an hour lecture can become boring, which in return the students are not comprehending the information presented.  Lecture for 15-20 minutes then go to Lab, then come back for the last 30 minutes of class to finish the lecture.